Aircraft

American Eurocopter EC145

The LifeFlight fleet is composed of four EC145’s, which were introduced in 2007.  The EC145 is a medium duty, twin engine helicopter with a cruise speed of 130 knots and maximum speed of 145 knots.  The EC145’s wide open, rear loading, cabin allows maximum flexibility for space for all of our medical equipment, up to 3 medical crew members and a Ferno Powerflexx stretcher.  The cockpit is all glass, NVG & SPIFR certified, and has all of the latest advances in aviation safety.

The Sikorsky S-76 Helicopter

The S-76 was designed as a high-speed, efficient utility transport helicopter. The fastest aircraft in the LifeFlight fleet, the S76 has a maximum speed of 155 knots and a cruising speed of 145 knots. For this reason, it is most often the aircraft used for longer distance transports. The aircraft is side loading and the only aircraft in our fleet with retractable landing gear. This aircraft is designated as LifeFlight 4 and based exclusively at our base at the Butler County airport.

MD Explorer

The MD Explorer is a light, twin-engine helicopter that provides a smooth, comfortable ride. It features the exclusive NOTAR®, no-tail rotor system for safe, quiet operation. The Explorer has a maximum speed of 140 knots and cruises at 120 knots. It is also side loading. This aircraft serves as LifeFlight’s dedicated backup aircraft, when any of the other helicopters are unavailable due to scheduled maintenance.

Safety Precautions

Establish a safety perimeter of 100' x 100' to keep personnel at a safe distance.

Do not approach the helipad or helicopter unless signaled by the pilot. Unless you are asked to help, stay outside the safety perimeter.

Normally, the rotor blades will be stopped before anyone can approach or depart from the helicopter. In certain emergency situations, it may be appropriate to load or unload the patient while the blades are turning. In these cases:

1. Approach the helicopter only when instructed by a pilot
2. Stay away from the nose and the tail of the aircraft
3. Use caution around the airspeed probes on the front of the helicopter
4. Keep your head down when passing under the blades
5. Approach and depart the helicopter from the 3 o'clock or the 9 o'clock position in full view of the pilot
6. Hold long objects horizontally. Hold IV bags as low as possible; nothing should be held higher than head level

Do not smoke, run, have loose articles or wear hats within the safety perimeter

No vehicles should be driven within 50 feet of the aircraft. Do not back up toward the helicopter.

LZ Set-Up