Kawasaki delivers the third H145//BK117 D-3 Helicopter to Central Helicopter Service

February 13, 2024

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. announced its delivery of H145//BK117 D-3 helicopter (“D-3”) to Central Helicopter Service, Ltd. This is the third D-3 delivered to the same company, and the 13th it has delivered in total. The D-3 delivered this time, like the two already delivered, is intended for use in emergency medical services.

The BK117 series has large cabin space with a full flat floor, versatile and large rear clam shell doors. This makes it possible to carry a total of five passengers including patients and large medical equipment, and is highly regarded as a medical helicopter not only in Japan but all over the world for its ability to perform smooth medical treatment and patient transport.

The D-3, retains the features of the previous model, the BK117 D-2, such as reduced noise, high mobility with high-performance engines, improved hovering performance at high altitudes, and reduced pilot load with the state-of-the-art avionics (electronics), while improving performance by using of the latest main rotor system (5-blade main rotor) as follows:

Increase of useful load weight by approximately 150 kg:
Maximum Takeoff Weight was increased by approximately 100 kg, and the total empty weight was reduced by approximately 50kg, increasing the useful load of the D-3 by approximately 150 kg.
Reduction of maintenance period by approximately 50%: A contribution of fewer inspection items and intervals, the adoption of a modern, easy-to-maintain main rotor system.

The BK117 is a medium-sized, twin-engine helicopter developed jointly with European company Airbus Helicopters, and is used for various purposes including emergency medical services, firefighting, disaster relief, law enforcement, broadcasting, and personnel and cargo transport. Following delivery of the first model in 1983, this helicopter has been continually improved over the years, and thanks to the aircraft’s outstanding technological strengths and high reliability, Kawasaki has successfully delivered 195 units as of today, and more than 1,900 worldwide with deliveries of Airbus Helicopters combined．

Kawasaki will continue to improve the BK117 helicopter, including the development of new optional equipment for various applications. Kawasaki will pursue further business opportunities around the world, taking advantage of the strong customer trust fostered through past deliveries, as well as the company’s comprehensive customer support system encompassing everything from development to manufacturing, sales and after-sales services.

Basic Specifications for the H145//BK117 D-3 Helicopter
Length	13.54 m
Width	1.73 m (body)
Height	3.98 m
Capacity	10 (standard number of seats) 12 (maximum number of seats)
Maximum Takeoff Weight	3,800 kg
Maximum speed	Approx. 263km/h
Cruising Range	723 km (standard tank)
Primary equipment	Automatic pilot system, GPS map display unit, helicopter terrain awareness and warning system (HTAWS), others