Norway-based operator Helicopter Services Group has ordered six Eurocopter AAS 365-N4 helicopters, the latest version of the Dauphin 2 family, with an option on another six machines.
The first two are due for delivery in November and December 1998, followed by the others at regular intervals.
At the same time, Jean-Francois Bigay, Eurocopter chairman and chief executive officer, has announced the sale of 15 AS350-B3 single-engine Ecureuil/Astar helicopters.
European certification of this new version is expected in November, with delivery of the first three the following month. Sweden's Osterman Helicopter has ordered two.
Norsk Luftambulance (Norwegian Air Ambulance) has also signed a contract for six EC135 helicopters and an option for six more of the same type.
Medical
The EC135s will be used in emergency medical services (EMS) missions in Norway. First deliveries are scheduled in November 1998, with the last at the end of 1999.
Norsk Luftambulance is a long-standing customer of Eurocopter, having introduced its first Bo105 into EMS operations in 1977, with the present fleet of five Bo105s and one BK117.
This is the latest version of the Dauphin 2, complete with new-generation cockpit avionics.
The Dauphin N4 is equipped with Turbomeca Arriel 2C engines, with digital engine control.
This allows it to take off at a maximum weight of 4,800kg (10,500lb), as opposed to 4,250kg (9,300lb) for the N2 and N3 Dauphin versions. Cruising speed is 265km/h (143kt) for a maximum range of 800km (400nm).
Source: Flight Daily News
