Press Release

Issued by Salus Aviation.

January 17, 2017

Airwork has signed an agreement with STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Service) Canada to upgrade three of their eight BK117-B2's to BK117-850D2's. The first aircraft upgrade has been carried out and it is anticipated that the next two will be completed during January. The aircraft upgrade involves removing the LTS101-750B1 engines and installing LTS101- 850B2 engines and various gauges. This ensures the helicopter meets CAT A, Class 1 requirements. The aircraft upgrade allows STARS to meet the Transport Canada H1 Helipad standards.

Scott Young, vice president aviation, STARS commented “The 850 upgrade has provided the performance to meet the unique operational requirements in several of our jurisdictions. The installation was completed smoothly, with the entire transition completed within the timelines provided by Airwork. We are confident that the 850 upgrade will provide us with the BK117 performance we will require into the near future.”

STARS have also taken advantage of the Airwork ASP (Airwork Support Plan). This unique price per flight hour based program will provide comprehensive maintenance support for both the 850 and 750 engine fleet and further contributes to improved cash flow management and budgeting due to the known hourly rate. “The Airwork Support Plan will provide budget predictability and a turn-key engine maintenance program to ensure our serviceability levels are maximized and sustainable.” says Young.

Airwork (NZ) Ltd is part of the Airwork Group of Companies, which is a provider of smart aviation services to customers throughout the world. Airwork Group offers a full complement of fixed wing and helicopter services, including: aircraft operation and leasing; aircraft sales; design and manufacture; maintenance, repair and overhaul services.