London HEMS new aircraft
 

Heard a rumour within LAS that London are getting a new aircraft next year. Can anyone confirm this and what airframe are they replacing EHMS with?

Thanks,
Jim:ok:

Definitely happening, but due to the cuts it'll be a used R22.

Well they must get another 902 because its much better than a 135/109!

Sorry - we haven't done the "my 135 is better than your 902/109" hamster wheel for so long......








hat, coat, mukluks

That's because there is no argument -

As a short to medium range air ambulance helicopter, there is nothing better than a 902.

I heard a few years back that the choice for their next airframe was an EC145. Mind you, this was back when MD were going through problems. Now that MD have gotten themselves back on track Im hoping that it'll be another 902.

I remember they were trying to sell on G-EHMS within a year of having bought it. I also remember a conversation with one of their pilots who stated the reasoins were it was frequently unservicable, and nothing like as relaible as the previosu dauphine. Based on that snippet I doubt the issue will be acquireing another such airframe.

Whilst Skidlids view is undoubtedly true I doubt that the post 2011 operation will be about which airframe is the best for the job [because none of them are dire] it is going to be about which one they can afford and which one the chosen operator is going to offer them.

There may be no visible change at all. If it is economic and the operator can live with it.... so that will be SAS/PAS/MAS then... EHMS may stay in service.

If [for instance] BASL wins the contract then it will be a 135. No option [except perhaps the 429]....

Can we expect any other bidders? That may be the question. Might it be Sloane's and the 109 [for they will offer nothing else] or perhaps the biggest laugh of all PDG Helicopters who I believe now have a spare EMS configured Dauphin coming up....... good reggie too.... G-HEMS.

I think I am joking..... :confused:

I was under the impression that Virgin HEMS do not own GEHMS and that they lease it from some finance related company. I believe that PAS/MAS do not own the airframe either and only have a contract to service it.

It would seem logical and cost effective for Virgin HEMS to apply for an extension to the lease and continue using GEHMS. Last time I saw it, it looked to be in an extremely good condition and I doubt whether it has many hours on it compared to other 902s of the same age.

Without wishing to get into the 'hamster wheel' argument, the small profile, lack of tail rotor, low noise and large cabin make the 902 ideal for city HEMS work.

Virgin Hems do in fact own G-EHMS. I remember as Bolkow said above, in the early days, if they could have dropped kicked that 902 off the Helipad, they would have done. Serviceability of about 70% !! But I guess it was a newish type at the time and better supplies and service from MD Helicopters have made it 'fit for purpose'.

I imagine now they would be as well continuing with the 902. Can't see them forking out for a new machine in todays economic climate, and not sure there would be many aircraft suited for the role as a 902. I feel the 135 is just a bit small for the sort of Urban operation that HEMS is.

London HEMS and the 902
 

I had the pleasure of selecting the 902 for London and putting together the lease deal. We (all the pilots) agreed at the time that it was the best machine for the job - a light twin with a medium capacity.

As for the 135 - it was never in the frame. London HEMS has a training role that requires seats for three in the back. I gather that feedback from the field is not that complimentary whereas the secondhand market for the 902 is hot. That must say something especially in the light of MD's woes. The 117C2 had the performance but was old technology.

I suspect the analysis that whoever gets the contract will bring their toy will hold sway as I doubt there is enough cash to be picky. Time will tell.

G.

Special 25,

G-INFO the CAA's register does not seem to agree with you about the ownership of their aircraft. It says it is leased.

Just had a look - I can't see where it says 'Leased'.

I can however see where it says Registered Owner: Virgin HEMS London Ltd.

Am I missing something ?

Yep.

"Ownership Status: Chartered"

G-EHMS is definitely leased. From a Japanese finance company, IIRC.