New Aircraft To Be Based In Fairbanks

The Alaska Department of Public Safety has purchased an AS350 B3e to support operations of the Alaska Wildlife Troopers and State Troopers. The new AS350 B3e will be based in Fairbanks, Alaska, bringing enhanced capabilities to the agency’s existing helicopter fleet, which also includes an AS350 B3.

“When we decided to add another helicopter to our fleet, we knew we needed something with the performance and capacity that would allow us to complete our wide variety of missions,” said Colonel Gary Folger, Alaska Wildlife Troopers. “The AStar’s wide cabin and flat floor gives us plenty of room for mission equipment and cargo, which is important when supporting our troopers and citizens on the ground.”
 
The AS350 B3e is the latest version of the AStar family, one of the most popular, high-tech helicopter platforms in the U.S. Airborne Law Enforcement community. The AStar is known for its performance, reliability and multi-mission flexibility. The B3e brings next-generation performance to the family. The aircraft is powered by a new Turbomeca Arriel 2D engine that delivers a higher cruise speed and is equipped with a new dual-channel FADEC and Engine Data Recorder, which enhance safety and system management.
 
“The AS350 B3e will be a great addition for the Alaska Department of Public Safety,” said Ed Van Winkle, American Eurocopter’s Sales Manager for Airborne Law Enforcement. “It will provide them with a reliable platform to conduct a wide range of law enforcement and utility missions in a challenging operating environment.”
 
The Alaska Department of Public Safety utilizes its helicopters to support operations throughout the State of Alaska, and they supplement a large fleet of fixed-wing aircraft. Since most areas of Alaska are not accessible by roads, the agency’s fleet acts as a force multiplier for troopers on the ground  – all with the goal of providing a safe and secure environment for the citizens of the State of Alaska.

(AS350 B3e image from file)

FMI: http://dps.alaska.gov/