Simrik Air adds two choppers

Simrik Air has bought two new AS 350 B3e helicopter from Eurocopter South East Asia Pvt. Ltd. Simrik Air Executive Chairman Rameshwor Thapa and Eurocopter South East Asia President Bernhard Brenner signed an agreement to this effect on Friday in Kathmandu.

Simrik Air is the first company outside the West to acquire the latest offering from Eurocopter. “Ever committed to our principle of exploring new horizons and rising above new frontiers, we ink the deal with Eurocopter South East Asia Pvt. Ltd to acquire the newest AS 350B3e helicopter,” said Thapa. “This makes us the first proud airline, outside the West, to boast such helicopter in the fleet.”

Both the choppers will be delivered in 2012. “The first one will arrive in March 2012 and the second in August 2012,” said Brenner. According to Brenner, there are 12 Eurocopter aircraft in Nepal.

With the addition of these choppers, Simrik’s fleet has increased to four. The company currently has two Japan made BK-117 helicopter.

An enhanced AS350 B3e is the next generation aircraft in the proven Ecureuil family.

Officially launched at Heli-Expo 2011 in Florida, USA, the AS 350B3e features a more powerful Turbomeca Arriel 2D turbo shaft engine, a new digital FADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control) and is fitted with an engine data recorder.

The powerful, high-performance AS350 B3e is designed to carry out the most demanding missions in the most extreme weather and geographical conditions. Its exceptional lift capability, high endurance, extended range and fast cruise speed make the AS350 B3e the leader in its class.

The AS350 B3e has engine filters for protection during flight in sand and snow conditions without a performance penalty. It incorporates tail rotor modifications for additional ease of piloting, and also features an improved interior design.

“This helicopter is suitable for rescue flight and medical evacuation,” said Yog Raj Kandel, general manager of Simrik Air. “It can fly up to an altitude of 23000 ft and has low fuel consumption. Simrik Air had made its debut in the Nepali sky with a Russian MI-17 helicopter.

Source:http://www.ekantipur.com/the-kathmandu-post/2011/05/13/money/simrik-air-adds-two-choppers-to-its-fleet/221686.html