CALSTAR Completes its Fleet Modernization

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Oct. 20, 2015 - PRLog -- October 2015 marks another significant milestone in the history of California Shock Trauma Air Rescue (CALSTAR) with the announcement that the company has chosen the Airbus H135 P3 to replace its remaining four legacy BO105LS helicopters.  This aircraft acquisition represents the conclusion of its fleet modernization plan, which was launched in 2012.

Over the last three years, CALSTAR has coordinated an operational transition to move the organization toward greater standardization and a variety of gains in operational efficiency. Through the collaborative efforts of the entire organization and its Board of Directors, the company successfully acquired and deployed eight new EC135 P2 helicopters, two Beechcraft King Air B200 airplanes, and sold 20 legacy aircraft in three years.

Before year-end 2015, two of the five new H135 helicopters will be delivered to Metro Aviation for medical interior completion and paint, with delivery to CALSTAR expected in the first quarter of 2016. The last three aircraft are scheduled to arrive at Metro for completion by mid-spring 2016. As soon as the new helicopters are operational, CALSTAR will remove the last four BO105’s from service, thus completing its fleet upgrade.

“We are extremely happy that this fleet transformation is now nearing its conclusion,” says Tad Henderson, COO. “As with the eight previous acquisitions, these new H135 helicopters will have a positive impact on our operations and will allow us to continue to provide the safest transport and care possible to our patients and healthcare partners in the communities we serve.”

“CALSTAR followed a very rigorous review process that included a detailed analysis by third party expert Conklin & de Decker Associates and hands-on trials by our own pilots and flight nurses,” explained Lynn D. Malmstrom, President and CEO. “The H135 became the clear leader after we were able to test its capabilities in our unique high/hot operating environment.”

Designed to operate in higher altitudes, such as those surrounding CALSTAR-6 in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, the H135 P3 is known for its power, control, low sound levels, reliability, and cost competitiveness. The twin-engine helicopter can land almost anywhere, particularly in high and hot conditions, while carrying 440 pounds more weight over longer distances than other rotorcraft in its category.

CALSTAR is the first air medical transport provider in the U.S. to acquire the H135.

About CALSTAR
California Shock Trauma Air Rescue (CALSTAR) is one of the largest non-profit air ambulance providers on the West Coast. With bases located throughout the state, CALSTAR provides immediate air medical transport to those who need critical care services. Saving lives, reducing disability and speeding recovery for victims of trauma and illness through rapid transport, quality medical care and education is CALSTAR’s mission. The company is headquartered at McClellan Park, Sacramento.