Helicopter Specifications

The Westpac Rescue Helicopters are state-of-the-art helicopters with sophisticated technology that enables them to fly in virtually all weather conditions - day or night.

They are the powerful twin­-engine Kawasaki BK117 , fitted with 30-million candle power Nightsun searchlight for night-time operations and, thanks to the generosity of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, also now have a $US400,000 Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) system which enhances our search and rescue operations through several high-tech thermal imaging cameras.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopters can transport and care for up to two patients each, thanks to its range of onboard emergency rescue and intensive care medical equipment. This includes a two-person winch that stretches 70m for difficult extractions and a patient stretcher.

Technical Specifications

Make: Kawasaki
Reg: EMS
Model: BK 117 B2 1994
Engine Type: Lycoming LTS 101 750
Engine Power (HP): 850 shaft hp per engine
Fuel Capacity (It's): 720 Litres plus two additional long range tanks , 200 litres each
Cruise Speed (kph): 247 kph
Payload (Kgs): 1200kg
Seating Capacity (Excluding Pilot): 9 people
Range (Km) with full payload: 540 Kms
Endurance (hrs/min) with full payload: 2hrs 50mins
Night Vision Goggle compatible: Yes
Night VFR: Yes
IFR: Yes
Personnel Hoist: Yes ­ (600lb/270kg) variable speed.
GPS­Make/Model: Garmin 430W (2 of) and Garmin MDX 200 multi-function display
Firefighting Equipment: No
Bucket & Type: Bambi Model 2024
Capacity (It's): 910 Litres
Foam Injection & Type: CDAX electronic foam injection