Metro Aviation adds awareness system to helicopters

                          
Metro Aviation has announced innovative enhancements for its EC135 and EC145 STC, as well a move into the Brazilian market and a new app for first responders.

“We are always looking for new and innovative ways to improve our safety equipment and services offered, not only in our operating fleet, but also to our completion customers around the world,” said Milton Geltz, managing director, at the recent Heli-Expo held in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Metro Aviation has added the capability of the Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System (HTAWS) to its well-established single pilot IFR (SPIFR) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the EC135. Later this year, the company will secure an additional STC utilising the Garmin GTN series for the EC135 and EC145.

Metro Aviation is entering the Brazilian market and recently gained approval by Agencia Nacional de Aviacao Civil (ANAC).  PAC International, Metro’s wholly owned subsidiary, will receive its ANAC will receive its approval soon.

The two companies have entered a marketing agreement with Sierra Aeronautica, a Brazilian company that will provide marketing and sales leadership for the customisation of helicopters entering Brazil.

“The Brazilian helicopter market continues to outstrip sales of most countries in the world,” said Mike Stanberry, Metro’s CEO.  The first VIP helicopter will be delivered to Brazil by mid 2013.

In a continuing effort to provide the best service to its operation customers, Metro Aviation has launched a smartphone app that decreases response time and serves as a helpful tool for first responders. The app is available on the iPhone and Android.