Kawasaki Delivers H145//BK117 D-3 Latest-model Helicopter to Central Helicopter Service
Dec. 27, 2022
Tokyo, December 27, 2022 — Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. announced today its delivery of H145//BK117 D-3 helicopter ("D-3") to Central Helicopter Service, Ltd.. This is the second D-3 delivered to the same company, and with the first D-3 it is intended for use in emergency medical services. Kawasaki has delivered 6 D-3s thus far.
The D-3 is an improved version of the former model, BK117 D-2 ("D-2"). The D-3 inherits the traditional advantage of the BK117 series such as large cabin space with a full flat floor, versatile and large rear clam shell doors, improved high-altitude hovering performance, lower noise, and the state of the art avionics (electronics), while improving performance as listed below by the adoption of new features such as the latest main rotor system (5-blade main rotor).
- Increase of useful load weight by approximately 150 kg:
Maximum Takeoff Weight was increased by approximately 100 kg, and the total empty weight was reduced by approximately 50kg, increasing the useful load of the D-3 by approximately 150 kg. - Reduction of maintenance period by approximately 50%: A contribution of fewer inspection items and intervals, the adoption of a modern, easy-to-maintain main rotor system.
The BK117 is a medium-sized, twin-engine helicopter developed jointly with European company Airbus Helicopters, and is used for various purposes including emergency medical services, firefighting, disaster relief, law enforcement, broadcasting, and personnel and cargo transport. Following delivery of the first model in 1983, this helicopter has been continually improved over the years, and thanks to the aircraft's outstanding technological strengths and high reliability, Kawasaki has successfully delivered 189 units as of today, and more than 1,700 worldwide with deliveries of Airbus Helicopters combined．
Kawasaki will continue to improve the BK117 helicopter, including the development of new optional equipment for various applications. Kawasaki will pursue further business opportunities around the world, taking advantage of the strong customer trust fostered through past deliveries, as well as the company's comprehensive customer support system encompassing everything from development to manufacturing, sales and after-sales services.
| Basic Specifications for the H145//BK117 D-3 Helicopter | |
|---|---|
| Length | 13.54 m |
| Width | 1.73 m (body) |
| Height | 3.98 m |
| Capacity | 10 (standard number of seats) 12 (maximum number of seats) |
| Maximum Take-Off Weight | 3,800 kg |
| Maximum speed | Approx. 263km/h |
| Cruising Range | 723 km (standard tank) |
| Primary equipment | Automatic pilot system, GPS map display unit, helicopter terrain awareness and warning system (HTAWS), others |
| * | Combined total weight with full loads of specified items/personnel including fuel, crew, passengers, etc. |
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