PENNSTAR FLIGHT AIRCRAFT
PennSTAR currently operates seven aircraft to support our diverse mission profile. Below is listed more information on the unique capabilities of each helicopter.
American Eurocopter BK-117
The American Eurocopter BK-117 features two Turbomeca
Arriel 1E2 turbine engines and is one of the
most versatile medium twin engine helicopters
in the world. Its compact design allows for navigation
in and out of tight landing zones – making
the BK-117 ideal for intensive care patient transport
flights, search and rescue operations and disaster
evacuation missions. It may also be used for
secondary emergency medical services, such as
inter-hospital transport of patients, vital medicines
and emergency equipment.
The BK-117's rugged construction and layout was designed in cooperation with rescue helicopter operators and their medical crews, and is based on thousands of successful rescue missions. A large, continuous cabin provides enough room for a critically injured or ill patient, three medical attendants and two pilots.
American Eurocopter EC-135 P-2
The American Eurocopter EC-135 P-2 is the newest
addition to PennSTAR's fleet. This modern
air ambulance is one of the safest helicopters
in the world. A state-of-the-art cockpit features:
- Color weather radar
- Dual global positioning systems (GPS)
- LCD multi-function display panels
- Night vision goggle (NVG) technology
- Real-time satellite tracking
- Single pilot instrument flight rules (SPIFR)
- Terrain Awareness Warning systems (TAWS)
- Three moving map displays
- Traffic collision avoidance system
The light twin EC-135 is powered by two engines, each yielding up to 633 horsepower. There is ample room for one patient and up to four crew members. Loading and unloading is carried out quickly and easily with extra large sliding doors and a rear, ambulance-style “clamshell” door. The EC-135's noise level and vibration are significantly lower than regulatory standards, making this aircraft ideal for flying over highly populated areas.

For medical flights:
1-800-543-STAR (7827)