The H125-series helicopters have broken world records throughout their career. In 2005, the AS350 B3 set the world record for the highest altitude landing and takeoff, performed on Mount Everest at 29,029 feet (8,848 meters) – a title still held today. In May 2013, the AS350 B3 performed the world’s highest longline rescue operation on Lhotse, the world’s fourth-highest mountain, located in the Himalayas at 27,940 feet (8,516 meters).
With built-in maneuverability, excellent
visibility and low vibration levels in the cabin, the H125 has earned its reputation as a true multi-mission workhorse. The versatility of the H125 is evident. Flying operations are dynamic, with each day providing different challenges. The H125 thrives in this environment – slinging equipment to
mountaintops, darting
elephants for medical checkups, dehorning rhinos so horn poachers won’t want to kill them, and conducting VIP flights and airborne surveillance. The ease in which the cabin can be reconfigured for these varied operations aids the efficiency and flexibility of the operations, proving the value that the Airbus H125 delivers. The flat floor assists in sliding equipment in and out, and the sliding doors on both sides of the helicopter can be opened during flight under certain speeds. Teams appreciate having enough power when flying slow and low or at high altitude with a full crew and passengers. Tranquilizer darting operations are dynamic, with the animals moving unpredictably.
Trees,
power lines and other obstructions need to be monitored and navigated.
Between the months of August and September, SANParks teams spend 450 to 500 flight hours conducting a census of rhinos and elephants in the Kruger National Park to gather the best possible population estimates.
I joined SANParks Air Services for a few days of operations. Landing at the airport, there is a brief respite from the heat with some welcome rain. The team plans the next few days of operations. The following day starts early at 5 a.m. to avoid the heat. After a quick coffee, the helicopters are moved outside onto the ramp for preflight inspections. The SANParks Veterinary Wildlife Services vets join us at 5:15 and prep their gear: harnesses, medication, dart guns and such. We are focused on two days of elephant management.
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