STARS excited for two new additions to fleet
Posted Apr 18, 2019 08:09:16 PM.
CALGARY (660 NEWS) – In June of 2018 STARS launched an ambitious plan for a new fleet of helicopters.
Today we were proud to introduce our two newest team members, a pair of Airbus H145 helicopters, flying here past our iconic BK117. The H145 will gradually replace all of our fleet, ensuring we'll continue to be there for the next generation of patients who need us. pic.twitter.com/DvOMppTmK1
— STARS (@STARSambulance) April 19, 2019
After more than 30 years using the same helicopters (BK117 and AW139) the team is purchasing some new Airbus H145 helicopters costing around $13 million each and the plan is to have nine eventually.
The new H145s bring cutting-edge technology to the pilots.
“Helicopter terrain avoidance warning systems, it has traffic collision avoidance systems, it is the most modern technology you can probably get in an aircraft,” said Captain John Carson.
One of the biggest reasons for renewing the fleet is that maintenance costs of the BK117 are going up since the helicopter was discontinued.
STARS hopes to have the two new helicopters in service later in the summer.