Thu, Oct 14, 2004
French manufacturer partners with Lifeport, markets special
mission version of aircraft
Making its debut at the 2004 National Business Aviation
Convention in Las Vegas (NV), EADS Socata presented on Tuesday the
Aerosled PLUS system for use in the 2004 TBM 700, installed and
developed by Lifeport, Inc. of Woodland (WA). Adding a new
dimension to medevac operations, the TBM has near-jet performance
for a lower cost as well as the ability to operate out of short and
unimproved runways. The TBM 700 single turbine engine operation
offers shorter preflight and turnaround times, providing operators
with rapid evacuation capability.
Stephane Bernard, VP of Sales and Marketing for EADS Socata and
CEO of Socata Aircraft, Inc. stated "The TBM 700 is an ideal
aircraft for medevac operations. Operating in an industry
traditionally dominated by jets and helicopters, the TBM 700
provides both economy and performance."
"Lifeport has designed a system allowing us to get the maximum
benefit out of the available cabin space while allowing enough room
for one patient, two crew and two medical staff to travel
comfortably. The PLUS system can also be removed and the original
TBM interior reinstalled in under an hour, ensuring multi role
capability," added Bernard.
The Patient Loading Utility System (PLUS) is a self-contained
module with full life support capabilities that can be installed in
an aircraft in the same time it takes to refuel. The PLUS system
mounts directly to existing hard points and tracks, and weighs less
than 160 pounds. The AeroSled is an aviation-designed stretcher,
which is structurally rated and designed to fit into aircraft with
space restrictions. A unique loading ramp allows the stretcher to
be loaded through the door level and requires no lifting inside the
aircraft.
Lifeport Inc. began operations approximately 14 years ago and
uses 3-D computer technology and experience to create new products
and customize systems. The corporation consists of three divisions
and a total of 106 employees, all manufacturing aviation equipment.
The Woodland (WA) division has over 700 medical systems in the
field worldwide.
(Photos courtesy of Paul Brou through Socata EADS)
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