Meanwhile, service receives first of eight PC-9M trainers
Ireland's air corps is poised to announce that it is selecting a mix of Eurocopter EC135s and EC145s to meet its requirement for six light utility helicopters. Flight International understands that defence minister Michael Smith will make an announcement within two weeks (Flight International 24 February-1 March).
Two EC135s will be used as trainers, with the larger EC145s carrying out roles ranging from army and navy support, medical evacuation, inshore rescue and VIP transport. They will replace four Eurocopter AS365F Dauphins, seven Aerospatiale SA316 Alouette IIIs and one AS342L Gazelle. The air corps already operates an EC135 on behalf of the police force.
The air corps has just taken delivery of the first of eight Pilatus PC-9M trainers, which replace Aermacchi SF260WEs, as part of a €60 million ($72 million) contract with the Swiss manufacturer.
PAUL DUFFY / SHANNON
Source: Flight International
