Lewiston-based helicopter—AGUSTA is designed to accommodate more people and comes with state-of-the-art tech increasing its capability to save lives. In fact, it’s more powerful and can attain higher speeds than the initial models.
The design was constructed to operate in rough weather. Even better, the $6.25 helicopter has better lighting and integrates an advanced guidance system that has revolutionized auto piloting.
This helicopter is in a series of Agusta 109SP and its tail number is N901XM. While most people don’t want to see it up close as it will come in handy in dire rescue operations, when the time comes, those involved will be grateful for its newer capability.
Besides, the $6.25 million Agusta helicopter will make the work of rescue crews much easier due to its improved abilities.
According to LifeFlight pilot Helge Melvaer, the chopper looks like the older model but everything in the machine is highly improved. The helicopter is amongst two choppers bought in a move to upgrade LifeFlight’s frontline fleet. These helicopters were acquired from an Italian manufacturer, Leonardo Helicopters.
More importantly, the N901XM and N901LF have better features, unlike the initial models, hallmarking 4-axis autopilot instead of 3-axis autopilot. This feature helps them to manage yaw, power, pitch, and roll.
Its ability to receive vertical guidance from GPS facilitates the aircraft to run low-level precision instrument flight paths. And as a result, LifeFlight can respond to more distress calls and help a myriad of patients.
According to the manufacturer, the N901XM can attain a maximum speed of 150 knots, which translates to 173 mph. This is 17 mph more speed as compared to the older models. This means the chopper can fly from Lewiston to Boston in just 15 minutes.
Another impressive feature includes its ability to maneuver in clouds and follow the designed helicopter routes accurately. It can fly at lower altitudes as compared to older models.
While the older model used half-analog tech the newer model integrates digital on-board tech. Simply, due to lack of a better word, the $6.25 million Agusta helicopter is amazing and it will help save many lives.
About FairLifts
At FairLifts, we offer emergency helicopter services that are prompt and professional. Our pilots go the extra mile to get to the location of the distress call without hesitating. Whether it’s a medical emergency or stranded in the jungle, rest assured we’ve got your back. Other services we offer include heavy-lift helicopters, pipeline inspection, and private charters just to mention a few.
Photo Credit: Russ Dillingham/Sun Journal