Air Evac Places Order for 16 Bell 206L-4 LongRanger Helicopters

Released on Monday, September 17, 2007

 

AMTC 2007, (September 17, 2007) -- Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company has announced the sale of 16 of their 206L-4 LongRanger aircraft to Air Evac Services Inc. The aircraft will join the Air Evac's fleet with deliveries beginning in 2009 through 2011.

Commenting on the deal Bob Fitzpatrick, Sr. Vice President, Bell Business Development said, "We are extremely pleased to provide these aircraft to Air Evac EMS. The reliability and versatility the 206L-4 provides EMS operators gives them the extra edge that can mean the difference between success and failure of their important mission. This is the beginning of a relationship we hope to see grow and last many years."

Air Evac Lifeteam Vice President of Aviation James Loftin said, "This order of 16 aircraft reinforces Air Evac Lifeteam's commitment to Bell Helicopter, as well as the patients and communities we serve. The purchase will provide us with an availability of aircraft to support our future growth plans and our lifesaving mission in rural America. We are very pleased to continue our working partnership with Bell Helicopters."

"Our participation in the Bell Vision Program to develop upgrade options for existing aircraft will allows us to maintain our fleet commonality, as well," Loftin continued. "This, coupled with several other new programs, including the implementation of a night vision goggles in our fleet and the use of Garmin 396 GPS systems with weather overlay, will enhance our operations and our ability to continue to provide our crews and patients with a safe working environment."

The 206L-4 evolved from the legendary 206B-3. A remarkable combination of power, room and range along with innovative doors and a spacious cabin make the LongRangerIV ideal for EMS mission.

The spacious cabin allows two patients and two medical attendants along with space for all necessary medical equipment. Quick and easy patient loading and unloading is provided by a standard bi-fold door with a 61-inch (155 cm) opening. Superb visibility for difficult scene landings and more safety margin are provided by large cabin windows for medical attendants and wrap-around windows for pilots.

Improved safety features such as rupture-resistant fuel cells, upper body restraints, energy absorbing seats, collective mounted throttle and the best autorotation characteristics of any helicopter flying today make the 206L-4 the safe, reliable and economical choice for the EMS mission.

 

Source: Bell, Air Evac EMS, Inc. Sign Sixteen Aircraft Deal