Swiss air rescue organisation REGA has led a spate of helicopter sales with an order for eight AgustaWestland A109S Grand light twins. REGA already flies A109K2s for mountain rescue operations and selected the Grand after a "rigorous evaluation" including flight tests in hot-and-high conditions, says the helicopter manufacturer.
In addition, US air medical transport provider Air Methods has signed a memorandum of understanding with American Eurocopter to purchase 10 AS350N2/B3 AStars per year "until further notice". The aircraft will meet forecast demand for single-engine helicopters to replace older machines, the company says.
Los Angeles Police Department's air support division has begun retrofitting its Eurocopter AS350B2s with Sagem Avionics integrated cockpit displays, including digital attitude and heading reference and engine management systems.
Source: Flight International
