METRO TO OPERATE FIRST BELL PRODUCT IN 25 YEARS

August 5, 2013

After 25 years, Metro Aviation will again be operating a Bell Helicopter product. The milestone is the result of the recent agreement with Tampa General Hospital’s (TGH) Aeromed program.

Tampa General’s Aeromed program transports critically ill or injured patients from their 23 surrounding counties. Metro began operations on August 1. During the transition period, Aeromed is utilizing its existing Eurocopter BK117 and 3 of Metro’s spare EC135’s. This fleet will continue while awaiting the delivery of four new Bell 407GX aircraft to be completed by Paradigm Aerospace Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Metro Aviation.

PAC is equipping the new aircraft with North Flight Data Systems’ Light Aircraft Recording System, S-Tech HeliSAS, Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System, Garmin G1000 and a synthetic vision system. Mike Stanberry, Owner and President of Metro Aviation stated, “We are happy that Aeromed has willingly embraced the additional safety equipment being installed on the aircraft that will exceed the expected NTSB/FAA rules including situational simulator training.”

When asked about the transition process, John Scott, Nurse Manager for the Aeromed program said, “I am completely impressed with Metro Aviation and their services and attention to detail.” Scott continued, “I am looking forward to a long term relationship with such a great company.”

Metro Aviation completed all pilot and mechanic training on schedule. Aeromed will receive the first of four Bell 407GX aircraft in late September with all aircraft to be delivered and operational by mid November.

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