The Helicopter
Life Flight’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter is a BK117 (Bolkow Kawasaki 117). It is reliable and quick. Shorter rotor blades improve manoeuvrability when access to patients is difficult. Its registration is HLF.
With two engines, our teams and patients
fly with added safety, especially when over water (as we do in most of our flights). The helicopter flies under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) with one pilot, but can be operated by two pilots. Is also equipped to be operated under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).
In addition to carrying a pilot and crewmember in the front, the helicopter can quickly be reconfigured in the back to carry:
• Two stretcher patients and two medical attendants
• One stretcher patient and five others (attendants or loved ones)
• Up to eight seated passengers
Life Flight’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter is one of four Westpac Helicopters around New Zealand (the others are in Auckland, Hamilton and Christchurch), and one of about 15 rescue helicopter services throughout the country.
