Powerline detection unit fitted to East Anglian Air Ambulance
A NEW piece of equipment has been installed in one of the East Anglian Air Ambulance’s BK117s, which will help to ensure the safety of the pilots who operate the service.The new powerline detection system can identify power cables – reducing the chance of a strike. The £17,000 device was paid for by EDF Energy Networks – which owns and operates the largest power distribution network in the UK.The unit emits a pulsing, audible sound along with a visual indcator – which flashes on the small cockpit display. Steve Norris flies for Sterling Helicopters, which operates the Air Ambulance from its Norwich base. He told GF, “It makes a lot of sense to get this put on all the Air Ambulances around the UK. In winter when you’re flying at low level it’ll show you powerlines from a mile or so away. It’s useful when you’re coming in to land in bad weather.”In a ceremony to honour the work of the charity, keen helicopter pilot Sir David Jason flew his R44 in to Norwich Airport to meet the pilots and crews last month.www.eastanglianairrambulance.org.uk
