The Eurocopter EC-145
The Eurocopter EC-145 is becoming a frequent site in the skies of the United States and the world. Its responsiveness and versatility makes it a favorite among many different types of helicopter operators.
The EC-145 is an outgrowth of the Messerschmitt Blokem Bloew (MBB) BK117, which Eurocopter acquired when Mercedes Benz purchased MBB.
The EC-145 is a collaborative design between Eurocopter and Kawasaki Heavy Industries. It first flew in June 1999 and received FAA certification in February 2002. Its a light twin-engine utility helicopter that can carry up to nine passengers. The helicopters roles include EMS, Law enforcement, people transport, VIP transport, search and rescue, military.
The EC-145 is larger than the BK-117 that it was based on. Its cabin is stretched by 18 inches and widened by 5 inches. The EC-145 is able to carry more a larger payload over a greater distance than the BK-117. The helicopter is powered by two Turbomeca Arriel 1E2 turboshaft engines that produce 750 SHP (shaft horsepower) each.
The EC-145 cockpit is equipped with a Thales glass cockpit and a four-axis dual autopilot system. It can be fitted for single or dual pilot IFR operation depending on operator requirements. The glass cockpit consists of a total of seven LCD displays. Two for each pilot that display flight, attitude, navigation, terrain, and weather information. The remaining three screens display engine, systems, fuel, caution, and alert data.
The helicopters cabin is able to carry up to eleven but most configurations call for no more than nine passengers. The helicopter features wide clamshell opening rear doors and wide side doors to make loading people and equipment easier. The generous canopy makes visibility very good.
A winch and external cargo hook is an option.
Recently the U.S. Army selected the EC-145 for its LUH (Light Utility Helicopter) program to replace ubiquitous UH-1 and OH-58 helicopters. The decision to use a commercial helicopter already in operation was a method used to reduce cost. The EC-145 is a proven airframe so teething problems in Army hands should be minimal. It meets or exceeds the designated range, speed, payload, and endurance requirements set by the Army.
The majority of the UH-145s will be flown by the Army National Guard and will fulfill a variety of missions including logistics, medical evacuation, homeland security, passenger transportation, and airborne command posts.
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