Blackcomb Aviation’s EC135’s will be based in Pemberton, British Columbia and provide support for the company’s numerous multi-year contracts with organizations requiring state-of-the-art twin engine aircraft.  This will include ongoing support for an extensive range of power utility (hydro) missions in western Canada.

“With safety and efficient service at the core of Blackcomb Aviation’s principal objectives, the decision to add the EC135’s to our current fleet was an easy one,” said Mr. Jonathan Burke, President and COO, Blackcomb Aviation. “Our goal is to supply our customers with an aircraft that will get a diverse range of jobs done in a safe and efficient manner.”

Blackcomb Aviation currently operates a Eurocopter fleet of both single and twin engine aircraft which includes four AS355’s,an AS350 B2, two AS350 B3’s, and an EC130 B4. In addition to power line maintenance and construction projects, Blackcomb Aviation’s aircraft support missions in search and rescue, flightseeing, filming, heli-skiing, and executive travel.

“Eurocopter Canada has recently seen a definitive move toward new twin-engine aircraft for Canadian utility operators, specifically in the hydro market” said Mr. Romain Trapp, President & CEO, ECL. “With the positive response the EC135 has been experiencing in terms of performance and operational efficiency, we are certain that Blackcomb’s procurement of these aircraft will be a perfect fit for their mission requirements.”

For enhanced safety and operational efficiency, Blackcomb Aviation has chosen optional equipment for both EC135’s that includes the latest in Garmin Avionics Packages, Dual Cargo Hook Systems, AAT Stretcher capabilities, plus LARS Flight Data Management and Cockpit Imaging Systems.

With over 1000 aircraft in operation worldwide, the EC135 is a powerful, lightweight, twin-engine multi-mission helicopter that showcases top-notch technology while offering low operating costs. The EC135’s high endurance and extended range enables this helicopter to perform a full range of mission requirements, while carrying more payload over longer distances.

For enhanced engine operations and safety, the aircraft is equipped with two Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC)-equipped Turbomecca ARRIUS 2B2’s. These powerful and reliable turboshaft engines provide outstanding performance and vital reserves. The Category A EC135 platform excels in one-engine inoperative (OEI) scenarios. The EC135’s multi-purpose design allows for fast and easy maintenance and optimal reliability.

About Blackcomb Aviation

Blackcomb Aviation™ (www.blackcombaviation.com) is a privately-owned helicopter and jet charter company headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. The company operates multiple aircraft out of Canadian and US bases in Vancouver/Richmond at YVR, Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, Lillooet, Bridge River Valley, Sechelt, Victoria, and Arizona.   Blackcomb Aviation holds all current and applicable Air Operator and Aircraft Maintenance Organization certificates and authorities.  The company also provides aircraft management services to other aircraft owners and is a designated Aircraft Management Company by the Canadian Business Aircraft Association.  Blackcomb Aviation is co-owned by John Morris and by the McLean Group who own and operate Vancouver Film Studios.

About ECL & Eurocopter Group

Eurocopter Canada Limited (www.eurocopter.ca) is a subsidiary of Eurocopter. Eurocopter Canada based in Fort Erie, Ontario since 1984, has additional operations in Richmond, British Columbia and Montreal, Quebec and a support and customer service network that spans the entire country.  Established in 1992, the Eurocopter Group is a division of EADS, a world leader in aerospace and defense-related services. The Eurocopter Group employs approximately 22,000 people. In 2012, Eurocopter confirmed its position as the world’s No. 1 helicopter manufacturer with a turnover of 6.3 billion Euros, orders for 469 new helicopters and a 44 percent market share in the civil and parapublic sectors. Overall, the Group’s helicopters account for 33 percent of the worldwide civil and parapublic fleet. Eurocopter’s strong international presence is ensured by its subsidiaries and participations in 21 countries. Eurocopter’s worldwide network of service centers, training facilities, distributors and certified agents supports more than 2,900 customers. There are currently more than 11,780 Eurocopter helicopters in service in 148 countries. Eurocopter offers the most comprehensive civil and military helicopter range in the world and is fully committed to safety as the most important aspect of its business.