New Aircraft Will Bring Company's Eurocopter Fleet To Eight

HealthNet Aeromedical Services of Charleston, West Virginia, will soon expand its fleet of American Eurocopter helicopters by taking delivery of its third EC135 and first EC145. Both aircraft are scheduled to be delivered on Nov. 6 and will enter service next March.

"With a track record of over 60,000 accident-free missions, the HealthNet operation is a model for the industry," said Marc Paganini, President & CEO of American Eurocopter. "We are pleased that they continue to select Eurocopter products and pledge our ongoing commitment to their continued success."

Chip Sovick, president and chief executive officer of HealthNet, said his organization has been flying Eurocopter products for 23 years, adding that the experience has been outstanding. "We are very pleased with the technology, safety, and suitability of the aircraft for the air medical missions we fly." The mixed fleet of 135s and 145s "allows us to better handle training missions and specialty team transports, such as pediatric and neonatal."

The HealthNet fleet, which has completed 60,000 accident-free missions, also includes four AS350s. The helicopters transport 3,500 patients a year, providing scene, interfacility, neonatal and pediatric transfers. HealthNet is a consortium of three hospitals. Working in conjunction with Air Methods and MedFlight of Ohio, HealthNet serves West Virginia and surrounding states, including Kentucky and Ohio

The HealthNet fleet incorporates a range of advanced technologies that enhance safety, including Dual-Pilot Instrument Flight Rules capability, Night Vision Goggles for pilots and crew, Helicopter Terrain Awareness Warning System, and Wire Strike Kit.

American Eurocopter says its EC135 is the twin-engine platform of choice for air medical operators, accounting for 60 percent of all twin-engine air medical services deliveries over the past decade. The EC135 is offered with a wide range of dedicated EMS interiors, maximizing the operator's choice for single-patient, dual-patient or isolette transport. The EC135's Fenestron tail rotor and rear clamshell doors offer the safest and easiest loading possible, while the aircraft's anti-resonance isolation system ensures that patients are given the smoothest possible ride. The EC145 offers multi-mission capability in a medium-class, twin-engine helicopter.  Operators appreciate the aircraft's speed, advanced glass cockpit, extra-large cabin and exceptional visibility.  With high-set main and tail rotors, the EC145 ensures safe ground operations, even during "hot" loading/unloading with blades turning.

FMI: http://healthnetaeromedical.com/, www.eurocopterusa.com