The Aérospatiale Alouette III is a single-engine, light utility helicopter developed by Sud Aviation and later manufactured by Aérospatiale in France. The Alouette III is the successor to the Alouette II, being larger and having more seating. Originally powered by a Turbomeca Artouste IIIB turboshaft engine, the Alouette III is recognised for its mountain rescue capabilities and adaptability. The first version of the Alouette III, the SE3160 prototype, first flew on 28 February 1959. Production of the SA316A (SE3160) began in 1961 and remained in production until 1968, when it was replaced by the SA316B.

The SA316B and the SA319B both remained in series production up to the early 1980s, when the main production line in France was closed down. However, HAL of India continues to licence-build Alouette IIIs as the Chetak. Versions of the Alouette III were also either licence-built or assembled by IAR in Romania (as the IAR316), F+W Emmen in Switzerland, and by Fokker in the Netherlands.

Between 1958 and 1963 the Swiss Army established a helicopter division comprising of 5-seater Alouette II helicopters. However it soon became apparent that more powerful turbines and greater payloads were needed.

This led to the decision to procure 9 gas-turbine 7-seater Alouette III versions manufactured by Sud-Aviation in France. The more powerful turbines incorporated in these Alouette III helicopters proved especially efficient in mountain operations. The advantage of transporting material by helicopter was soon recognized which led to an expansion of the helicopter fleet. The new helicopters were acquisitioned in 2 installments; in 1966, 15 Alouettes were delivered directly from the manufacturer in France, and between 1972 and 1974 a further 60 Alouettes were assembled under license in Switzerland at the Federal Aircraft Works in Emmen.

Today helicopter pilots undergo initial training on the Alouette III. The Alouette III have been distributed forming different light aircraft squadrons which play a vital role in air transportation. They have proven especially efficient in personnel transport as well as being able to transport external loads with the use of carrier nets. The helicopters are able to lift large amounts of water, and can be used in combating forest fires. With the aid of a fixed winch the Alouette can also be operated in the SAR role in the Alpine regions.

The Allouettes are currently being replaced by the Eurocopter EC635, the final Alouettes will be phased out in 2010.