PennSTAR currently operates four aircrafts to support our diverse missions. Below is more information on the unique capabilities of each helicopter:

Locations

PennSTAR has three regional locations to ensure rapid emergency response.

  • PennCOMM Communications Center
    Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania Helipad
  • PennSTAR 1
    Montgomery County Base
    Wings Airport
  • PennSTAR 4
    Montgomery County Base for Reading Hospital Medical Center, Tower Health
    Pottstown-Limerick Airport
  • PennSTAR 6
    New Jersey Base
    South Jersey Airport
  • PennSTAR CCT 1 Ground
    Wings Airport
  • PennSTAR ALS 1 Ground
    Good Shepard Penn Partners

American Eurocopter EC-145

PennSTAR 4The EC145 is at the top of its class in the medium-sized, twin-engine helicopter category. Since its introduction into the U.S. marketplace, the EC145 has established itself as a multi-mission leader. It is the undisputed platform of choice in the air medical services sector, while also demonstrating its off-shore capabilities in the Gulf of Mexico and service with the U.S. Army in the militarized Light Utility Helicopter version. Equipped with twin Turbomeca Arriel 1E2 engines that ensure a fast cruise speed of 133 kts. and a service ceiling of 17,200 ft., the EC145 has the "dash" capability for emergency airlift missions when minutes often mean the difference between life and death. The rugged Arriel powerplants guarantee reliable flight performance in temperatures ranging from -45 to +50 degrees Celsius.

American Eurocopter EC-135

This modern air ambulance from American Eurocopter 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 and a traffic collision avoidance system.

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 operations 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.

PennSTAR Flight Team Network

The PennSTAR Flight Network was established in 1999 and is currently comprised of:

  • Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
  • Penn Presbyterian Medical Center
  • Pennsylvania Hospital
  • Chester County Hospital
  • Lancaster General Hospital
  • Princeton Medical Center
  • Reading Hospital and Medical Center, Tower Health
    West Reading (Level II Center)
  • Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
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