Survival Flight conducted an initial review of the EC155 B1 aircraft last week. On the agenda for the configuration team was to approve the final paint layout and review the medical system installation. With the approval of the new paint scheme and the medical system configuration, Metro Aviation, Inc. continues to proceed with an on schedule delivery.

“The reason we chose this particular aircraft is because the cabin space can be configured in a standard configuration for four medical staff, optional five seats for team transports,  a patient, and all necessary life support monitoring equipment,” stated Denise Landis, Survival Flight Critical Care Manager. “The aircraft can also be configured with a neonatal transport positioned laterally to allow full access to the neonatal transport unit and occupant. This flexibility is due in large part to the floor system Metro Aviation, Inc. designed to our specifications. We carry a lot of specialty patients so it’s important for us to have the space to bring all of the equipment and staff necessary for transports.”

Landis added, “As preparations for receiving the aircraft continue, Survival Flight mechanics are now attending training with Eurocopter. Our pilots will attend HeliSim training in Paris as well as obtain seven hours of flight time in the actual aircraft. Anyone that will be flying in the aircraft is required to attend two weeks of safety orientations as well.”

Survival Flight plans to replace the current Bell 430 fleet as the EC155 B1’s become ready and training is completed.

Metro Aviation, Inc. was established in 1982 as a helicopter charter, flight training, and maintenance operation facility. Since then, Metro Aviation, Inc. has grown substantially in size, and is internationally recognized for its excellence in helicopter transportation services. Today, Metro Aviation, Inc. is an FAA certified Airframe Modification, Maintenance, Inspection and Repair center, and is proud to offer traditional services to its valued customers.