heliexpo in review

March 11, 2013

During Metro Aviation’s press event at HeliExpo 2013 last week, the air medical transportation and helicopter completions leader announced innovative enhancements for its EC135 and EC145 STC, as well as its move into the Brazilian market and its 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.

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 utilizing the Garmin GTN series for the EC135 and EC145. The new GTNs offer touchscreen controls and seamless cockpit integration.

Already a global company, Metro Aviation is entering the Brazilian market and recently gained approval by Agencia Nacional de Aviacao Civil (ANAC), the Brazilian civil aviation authority. PAC International, Metro’s wholly owned subsidiary, will receive its ANAC approval this week. The two companies have entered a marketing agreement with Sierra Aeronautica, a Brazilian company that will provide marketing and sales leadership for the customization 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. When utilizing Metro Alert, first responders have a direct line to airborne medical crew and can send GPS coordinates and scene details. The app can decrease response time by up to five minutes by allowing the flight crew to prepare the helicopter for takeoff while emergency communication agencies verify the scene. The app is available on the iPhone and Android.

Metro Aviation is and always has been committed to the safety and efficiency of its aircraft and crew. Through innovations like these, the company will remain on the forefront as a leader in completions and operations.

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