Airwork has signed an agreement with STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service), Canada, to upgrade three of its eight BK117-B2s to BK117-850D2s. The first aircraft upgrade has been carried out and it is anticipated that the next two will be completed in January.
The aircraft upgrade involves removing the LTS101-750B1 engines and installing LTS101-850B2 engines and various gauges. This ensures the helicopter meets CAT A, Class 1- requirements. The aircraft upgrade allows STARS to meet the Transport Canada H1 helipad standards.
“The 850 upgrade has provided the performance to meet the unique operational requirements in several of our jurisdictions,” said Scott Young, vice president, aviation, STARS. “The installation was completed smoothly, with the entire transition completed within the timelines provided by Airwork. We are confident that the 850 upgrade will provide us with the BK117 performance we will require into the near future.”
STARS has also taken advantage of the Airwork ASP (Airwork Support Plan). This unique price-per-flight-hour-based program will provide comprehensive maintenance support for both the -850 and 750 engine fleet and further contributes to improved cash flow management and budgeting due to the known hourly rate.
“The Airwork Support Plan will provide budget predictability and a turn-key engine maintenance program to ensure our serviceability levels are maximized and sustainable,” said Young.
Airwork (NZ) Ltd is part of the Airwork Group of companies, which is a provider of smart aviation services to customers throughout the world. Airwork Group offers a full complement of fixed-wing and helicopter services, including aircraft operation and leasing; aircraft sales; design and manufacture; maintenance, repair and overhaul services.
