Despite Logistics Issues, Helitanker Manufacturer Comes Through in a Pinch

Erickson's Unique S-64 Air Crane helicopter has been delivered to one of the firm's classic customers, the Korean Forest Service.

The relationship between the two dates back more than 20 years, when the South Korean government entity procured its first S-64 Air Crane, the first foreign  government to put its face in the aircraft. From then on, they've gone on to procure 7 more, pressing the helicopter into service as an all-weather firefighter. Air Crane number 8 began production in January of 2020 at Erickson's Oregon fabrication facility, taking quite a bit longer than the norm given the compounding issues around logistics over the past 2 years. Like the rest of the industry, Erickson faced obstacles in shipping, parts, and electronics, but managed to adapt to the fast-moving changes and produce an aircraft up to snuff. 

“The S-64 is paramount to Korea Forest Service’s mission, and we are thankful for the opportunity to add to their fleet of Air Crane helicopters,” said  Ryan Perkins, Vice President of Marketing, Business Development and Sales. “This aircraft is representative of Erickson’s ability to meet customer needs in trying times, and our team did a phenomenal job."

That gratitude is echoed throughout the company. Jeff Mecklenburg, VP of Aerosystems, also applauded the work done by the production team. “The Erickson team was able to adapt to unforeseen circumstances to produce a superior aircraft. We look forward to continuing to overcome challenges in support of KFS and the global firefighting community.”

Erickson seems optimistic that such protracted production won't be a common occurrence going forward, preparing to tackle increasing demand for heavy-lift helicopter tankers amid a sometimes quixotic and unpredictable economic climate.

Perkins didn't miss a chance to plug his work, adding “The global demand is increasing for the heavy-lift helitankers, and Erickson stands ready to respond with the most effective and efficient rotary-wing firefighting machine in the air, the S-64 Air Crane.”

FMI: www.ericksoninc.com