Swiss-based Karen Helicopter Services (Karen) has taken delivery of two brand-new Bell 505 helicopters, HB-ZXE and HB-ZXL, to modernise the current single-engine fleet consisting of three Bell/Agusta-Bell 206s. As part of a strategic investment plan to update the current fleet, Karen will use these aircraft for commercial flights and pilot training.
The two helicopters have a slightly different layout, HB-ZXE has the VIP interior and will be equipped with autopilot as soon as the EASA certification is granted, while HBZXL has the utility interior and a cargo hook. Considering the mountainous environment of the Swiss Alps, the Bell 505 will provide a considerable performance improvement compared to the Bell 206, making the new helicopters the perfect fit for mountain operations.
This purchase is also part of a strategic investment related to Karen’s Aviation Training Centre, which incorporates aircrew and technical personnel training under Part-147. Karen’s development plan includes the acquisition of other training helicopters and strategic development that will be unveiled soon.
