Date: 02 Jan 2004
Time: 05:19
MD Helicopters, Inc. will deliver a twin-engine MD Explorer helicopter to UK-based Medical Aviation Services (MAS) in Autumn 2004 for Great North Air Ambulance. MAS is the MDHI distributor for aeromedical helicopters in the UK and the aircraft will be outfitted for emergency medical service missions.
The order was announced during the Helitech exhibition on 23 September 2003. Great North Air Ambulance currently operates from bases in Teeside and Blythe (UK) and this purchase of its first MD Explorer is part of a comprehensive upgrade and expansion programme that will include replacement of its existing BO 105 and AS 355 helicopters.
“The MD Explorer has been well received for air medical work because of its safety features, low noise and large cabin size,” commented MD Helicopters. “The aircraft has FAA and JAA certification for single-pilot, Category A IFR operations.”
The company has also developed its patented NOTAR system for anti-torque control.