Babcock delivers new H145 to South Australia emergency services

news
0
SHARE:
Babcock has delivered a new H145 to South Austalia.

Babcock has delivered a new H145 helicopter to the South Australia emergency services.

Babcock has delivered a new Airbus H145 helicopter to the South Australia State Rescue Helicopter Service (SRHS). The aircraft – owned, operated, and maintained by Babcock – will be used by South Australia Police (SAPOL) as part of its law enforcement missions.

The aircraft is one of two replacement helicopters to be provided by Babcock this year, as part of a AUS$150m, four-year contract extension with the SRHS. The second aircraft – a Bell 412 EP – will be configured specifically for the South Australia Ambulance Service (SAAS) medical rescues and retrievals. Scheduled to arrive in December, this helicopter will enable better resourcing during times of peak operation and relieve pressure on existing services, according to Babcock.

Four new pilots have also been recruited and trained by Babcock as part of its commitment to supporting SRHS’s operations.

Andrew Cridland, CEO, Babcock Australasia said: “One of Babcock Australasia’s key remits is to create a safe and secure world, together, and we are proud to be partnering and supporting the State Rescue Helicopter Service here in South Australia, where we are headquartered.”

Grant Stevens, commissioner, South Australia Police said: “This modern addition enhances our operational capabilities and ensures a safer South Australia for all residents.”

Pilots, aircrew and police tactical flight officers are now training on the H145, after which the helicopter will replace the fleet’s SAPOL Bell 412 aircraft.

Christian Venzal, MD, Airbus Helicopters in Australia and New Zealand, said: “As the quietest helicopter in its class, along with its leading safety and performance capabilities, we look forward to seeing the H145 supporting critical operations while serving and protecting the community of South Australia.”

The SRHS operates 24 hours a day, year-round, providing critical emergency response across the state. It specialises in aeromedical retrievals from rural hospitals and accident scenes, search and rescue missions on-land and at sea and airborne law enforcement.

Each year, the state’s emergency fleet completes a combined average of 1,300 missions, totalling more than 2,000 flying hours.

SHARE: