Airbus Helicopters BK117 VH-SLA Lifesaver

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Airbus Helicopters BK117 VH-SLA Lifesaver model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual aircraft. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The Airbus Helicopters BK117 VH-SLA Lifesaver model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful, finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid helicopter model collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual real life heli.

If you require, we can also make the Airbus Helicopters BK117 VH-SLA Lifesaver model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary, in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The Airbus Helicopters BK117 Lifesaver: A Vital Asset in Emergency Medical Services

The Airbus Helicopters BK117 Lifesaver is a versatile and robust aircraft that has become a cornerstone in the provision of emergency medical services (EMS) and search and rescue operations worldwide. Developed as a joint venture between Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB) of Germany and Kawasaki Heavy Industries of Japan, the BK117 is renowned for its reliability, performance, and adaptability to various missions, including air ambulance services, law enforcement, and executive transport.

Origins and Evolution:

The BK117 made its first flight in 1979, marking the beginning of a new era in helicopter design. Its development was focused on creating a versatile aircraft capable of performing in diverse environments, from urban landscapes to remote areas. The BK117’s design incorporated a spacious cabin, high levels of maneuverability, and twin-engine reliability, making it an ideal choice for emergency medical and search and rescue missions.

Over the years, the BK117 has undergone several upgrades to enhance its performance, safety, and comfort. The most notable of these is the transition to the BK117 C-2, known commercially as the EC145, and later to the H145, which introduced advanced avionics, improved engines, and increased payload capacity.

Technical Specifications and Features:

The Airbus Helicopters BK117 is celebrated for its distinctive features, including:

• Twin-Engine Safety: The BK117’s twin-engine configuration ensures continued flight capability in the unlikely event of an engine failure, a crucial safety feature for operations over challenging terrain or urban environments.
• Spacious Cabin: The helicopter’s large, unobstructed cabin can be rapidly reconfigured for different missions, accommodating up to two stretcher patients and medical personnel in an air ambulance configuration.
• Advanced Avionics: Modern variants of the BK117 are equipped with state-of-the-art avionics that enhance navigation, flight management, and operational safety.
• Superior Performance: The helicopter’s powerful engines and aerodynamic design allow for excellent hover capability, crucial for rescue operations in difficult conditions.

Operational Roles:

The BK117 Lifesaver excels in a variety of roles:

• Emergency Medical Services: As an air ambulance, the BK117 provides rapid transportation for critically ill or injured patients, offering onboard medical care and significantly reducing the time to reach healthcare facilities.
• Search and Rescue: The helicopter’s maneuverability and performance in adverse weather conditions make it an invaluable asset in search and rescue operations, whether over land or sea.
• Law Enforcement and Surveillance: Equipped with specialized equipment, the BK117 supports law enforcement agencies in surveillance, crowd control, and rapid deployment of tactical units.
• Executive Transport: The comfortable cabin and smooth flight characteristics of the BK117 also serve the executive transport market, providing fast and efficient travel for business professionals.

Impact and Legacy:

The Airbus Helicopters BK117 has made an indelible impact on the way emergency and rescue services are provided. Its ability to operate in diverse environments, combined with the safety provided by its twin-engine design and the versatility of its spacious cabin, has saved countless lives. The BK117’s legacy is not just in its technological achievements but in the countless stories of rescue and recovery, where its presence meant the difference between life and death.

As the BK117 continues to evolve, with new iterations like the H145 bringing further enhancements, its role in emergency services remains unchallenged. Airbus Helicopters’ commitment to innovation ensures that the BK117 Lifesaver will continue to be a vital asset in emergency medical services for years to come, embodying the spirit of dedication and service that is the hallmark of all first responders.