Originally Posted by
Hot_LZ
To play devil’s advocate here, I’m surprised none of the bidders proposed the EH101 if it’s all about size. You can stuff that thing full!
Why consider bid requirement, operating price, parts availability, mission system capability, performance when you can stick with status quo…
LZ
The jump from new S92A to EH101 in terms of capital cost isn't as much as one may expect, however the incumbent S92A's were a few years old - putting aside capability for a moment (stand fast....) the AW189 has a much lower capital cost, and with BRS having sewn up most of NW Europe, even more affordable through synergy. To return to capability - the Irish have been offered two different capabilities, and despite already having the more capable aircraft on contract, opted for the AW189. Either the IRCG voted on price, or CHC need to figure out why they are just not competitive on SAR anymore (and this can't entirely be explained away by 2017). Finally, no commercial operator operates the EH101, and the induction costs would probably be enough to render it moot for any contracted SAR, unless their was some form of PFI deal on the table.