Helicopter Fleet Information
PennSTAR currently operates seven aircraft to
support our diverse missions. For more information
on the unique capabilities of each helicopter,
choose a type below:
American Eurocopter BK-117
The American Eurocopter BK-117 features two Turbomeca
Arriel 1E2 turbine engines and is one of the
most versatile medium twin engine helicopters
in the world. Its compact design allows for navigation
in and out of tight landing zones – making
the BK-117 ideal for intensive care patient transport
flights, search and rescue operations and disaster
evacuation missions. It may also be used for
secondary emergency medical services, such as
inter-hospital transport of patients, vital medicines
and emergency equipment.
The BK-117's rugged construction and layout
was designed in cooperation with rescue helicopter
operators and their medical crews, and is based
on thousands of successful rescue missions. A
large, continuous cabin provides enough room
for two patients, three medical attendants and
two pilots.
Agusta A109 Power
Created in 1997, the Agusta A109 Power is a light,
twin-turbine helicopter with two Turbomeca Arrius
2K1 engines. Each engine produces up to 750 horsepower,
which allows for cruise speeds of up to 178 miles
per hour. Acquired in 2000, the A109's
speed and safety features have improved PennSTAR's
response time – especially in bad weather.
The powerful A109 is ideal for flying over built-up
regions – even if one engine fails, the
pilot can maintain enough height to clear buildings
and land safely.
This aircraft has a glass cockpit with two complete
sets of pilot instruments and navigation systems.
The 123-cubic feet cabin can hold up to eight
people and is completely separate from the cockpit – allowing
for independent loading and patient care without
cockpit intrusion. Internal and external baggage
space is also available.
American Eurocopter EC-135 P-2
The American Eurocopter EC-135 P-2 is the newest
addition to PennSTAR's fleet. This modern
air ambulance is one of the safest helicopters
in the world. A state-of-the-art cockpit features:
- Color weather radar
- Dual global positioning systems (GPS)
- LCD multi-function display panels
- Night vision goggle (NVG) technology
- Real-time satellite tracking
- Single pilot instrument flight rules (SPIFR)
- Terrain Awareness Warning systems (TAWS)
- Three moving map displays
- Traffic collision avoidance system
The light twin EC-135 is powered by two engines,
each yielding up to 633 horsepower. There is ample
room for one patient and up to four crew members.
Loading and unloading is carried out quickly and
easily with extra large sliding doors and a rear,
ambulance-style “clamshell” door. The
EC-135's noise level and vibration are significantly
lower than regulatory standards, making this aircraft
ideal for flying over highly populated areas.
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