Sorry, I know similiar sites were done, but we got to a dead end and here is where we are.
Currently operate AS350B3 Squirrels with full ALS(advance life support) ambo kit(single patient).
Need to expand to twins to include extended night and IF operations. Minimum of 3 heli's required at 3 different stations.
Standard requirements for all 3: twin, single plt IFR, 2 ICU stretchers and 2/3 med crew(at worst 1 ICU, 1 litter patient), 2 pilot, min 3 hours range
Base 1: Full rescue capability in gusting mountain conditions, sea rescue
Base 2: 6000ft, average temp 38 degrees, alt and temp up to 8000ft @ 40 degrees.
Base 3: High humidity, alt up to 6600ft @ 32 degrees, definate 3 hrs + range.
We know we gonna have to compromise somewhere, but need 1 type to ease maintenance, rostering, interchangeability etc.
We have operating cost(manufacturer and 2 independant surveys), purchase price, performance graphs, machine availability for EC135, EC 145/BK 117C1 interim, MD Explorer, Agusta Grand, Bell 412, S-76, AS 365N2 & N3.
MD cheapest but no support here, range, rescue capability.
Agusta-expensive, lead time, cabin size, range
Bell 412- operating cost seem high, downtime?
S76- low rotor massive problem and restricting factor due to running crowds and often terrain.
EC135- 2 patient and crew hot and high not good
It seems it is between the EC145/BK and Dauphin(graphs, range-145 not good, payload after performance reduction for alt/temp). Anybody out there knowing both machines and/or who can shed a different light?
Pls, we are not critisizing any type, just looking at the requirements.