Costa Rica seeking two helicopters

Costa Rica seeking two helicopters

The Costa Rican government has issued a request for information (RfI) through the US Department of the Army for a pair of rotary-wing training helicopters.

The RfI, released on 7 December, requires the aircraft to be able to seat around six personnel including crew and be re-configurable to carry a single litter for medical evacuation.

The type of aircraft must also be single-pilot capable, feature a basic avionics suite, a rescue hoist and have a minimum service ceiling of 12,500 feet. The aircraft need to be delivered between 2012 and 2013.

Other desired features of the aircraft include an EO/IR sensor, night vision goggle compatible interior lighting, search light as well as initial routine maintenance spares with no major end items and pilot training/air crew certification.

The Department of the Army said: 'The acquisition of these aircraft is highly desired but very limited by budget. The aircraft will be used to support law enforcement, medical evacuation, and VIP transport missions by Costa Rica Government agencies.'

It is likely the two helicopters will join the ranks of the Servicio de Vigilancia Aerea of the Fuerza Pública (Air Section of the Civil Guard) which currently operates MD500 light helicopters and several light fixed-wing types.

Ref: Rotorcraft Professional