Environmental performance played a key role in the sale of the third Kaman K-MAX "aerial truck" in Europe. The helicopter has been operated by new company ROTEX which is based in Liechtenstein.
ROTEX, which is targeting logging, construction, and Alpine-related industries in Southern Germany, Austria and Switzerland, has easily exceeded its operational-hours target since its launch.
"We are very happy with its performance and how busy we have been," said ROTEX chief executive Rolf Stalder during a demonstration at the company's base at Balzers in Liechtenstein.
"The aircraft is perfect for tourist areas and those where there are restrictions on noise. Low noise level was an important issue for us, and this helicopter has by far the lowest noise of any model."
He adds that the low noise level gives ROTEX greater flexibility, enabling it to operate longer hours in noise-sensitive regions.
Most of the work with the K-MAX - which demonstrated its lift and fire-fighting roles - has been in the logging business in the region. Unlike timber lifting in the United States which tends to be in "clear cut" type operations, the aircraft is the workhorse for surgical timber lifting.
The 23rd single-seat K-MAX is due for roll-out soon.
Kaman says that after a total of 26,000 operating hours, it now sets the direct operating costs at about $485 per flight hour.
The company says that is a "dramatic" difference compared with rival aircraft, which range from $839 to $1,329 an hour (based on manufacturers figures).
The K-MAX calculations are based on an intermediate 1,800 hour transmission Time between Overhauls (TBOs).
Source: Flight Daily News