The first of four brand-new Sikorsky S92 helicopters, configured entirely for search and rescue (SAR), have been handed over to the MCA. The helicopters will be used primarily in the Highlands and Islands.

The handover took place at HeliExpo, the world's largest gathering of helicopter manufacturers, in Orlando, Florida.

The state of the art helicopters will be leased to the MCA by CHC Scotia who won the interim contract to supply aircraft to the MCA from 2007 to 2012.

"These new aircraft have been specifically kitted with various items of advanced technical equipment, including an on board automatic identification system (AIS), specifically designed for the challenges of search and rescue in the 21st Century. The S92s are in use on a variety of commercial duties around the world, proving their operational effectiveness and reliability, although this is a world first in being configured entirely for search and rescue.

The aircraft are fitted with two internal auxiliary fuel tanks of 210 gallons each.

Fitted SAR options include:

  • an improved AFCS with auto-hover capability,
  • Forward looking infra red (FLIR)
  • dual rescue hoist,
  • full sliding-door
  • bubble window,
  • cargo hook,
  • search-light
  • loud hailer.
  • The cabin can be arranged for installing triple medical litter kit, one or two aux fuel tanks, folding utility seats and ample storage.

The designated operator console provides search data including FLIR and enhancing crew coordination on SAR missions.

The first four Sikorsky S92 helicopters will be followed by three Agusta Bell AB139s