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EMS
HALO-Flight purchases IFR-configured Bell 407GXi
February 5, 2020 By Helicopters Staff
HALO-Flight’s purchase will make it the first Bell 407GXi HEMS operator with IFR flight capabilities. (Photo: Bell) HALO-Flight based Corpus Christi, Texas, signed a purchase agreement for a Bell 407GXi with an Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) kit to add to its existing Bell aircraft fleet.
“We are excited to announce that HALO-Flight added the first Bell 407GXi HEMS operator with IFR flight capabilities to its fleet,” said Doug Schoen, managing director, North America, Bell. “This will give our customer more of an advantage in the air during tough weather conditions.”
A non-profit charitable organization, HALO-Flight began air ambulance services in 1987 within the South Texas service area and by transfer to trauma centers outside the Coastal Bend. The company already operates three Bell 407s and a Bell 429 for air ambulance services.
Bell explains the 407GXi IFR will enable HALO-Flight to have more flights and save more lives in a cost-effective way. “This aircraft will be extremely beneficial for our EMS missions and allow us to reach our patients in all-weather conditions,” said Tom Klassen, executive director, HALO-Flight.
Bell explains the 407GXi’s Garmin G1000H NXi Flight Deck enhances situational awareness and reduces pilot workload by delivering easy-to-read information. Arrow Aviation will be installing Helifab’s articulated EMS litter installation into the aircraft, which provides litter restraint for transportation of ambulatory person and articulates to either a 45° or 90° loading position. It is certified for taxi, takeoff, and landing with backrest inclined 30°, a Lexan Patient/Pilot Guard, Aft radio audio panel mount and cargo track equipment mount provisions.
The 407GXi installation features also include: Helifab’s medical oxygen system provides that up to 115 cubic feet of gaseous oxygen storage; a single pump medical vacuum with two in-cabin outlet ports medical air system; over patient oxygen port outlet enclosure, with IV hangers; 500-watt 115V AC inverter with two AC outlets; two twin port USB chargers in cabin; and a 120V shore power system with external shore power access door.
