The 609 isnt the best EMS machine.
1st : Its way to big to do on-scene work. The thing is huge , i couldnt believe
how large the mock-up was.It isnt going to fit into tight canyon roads where a large helo like a 412 or S-70 would have no problem. And how about hot day /Altitude performance , it can`t be that great with the high disc loading of the rotors.
2nd :its way to expensive , about 1 1/2 times more than a S-76 ,and the S-76 is in a league of its own price wise.
3rd :most medivacs are under 50 miles and
a normal helicopter is as fast point to point and less expensive overall. Over
one hundred miles it might be OK for hospital transfers....but its to expensive
for a hospital to buy , or two or three hospitals to buy....big money.
4th: It needs to be sorted out before id want to fly in it. Guaranteed they will crash some early-on
Just my humble opinion. Please state your opinion of the 609.....im very interested in learning what others think about this technology.
[This message has been edited by Larry (edited 05 March 2001).]