Eurocoper choppers for India's emergency medical service

New Delhi, Oct 21 (UNI) Vectra Aviation, distributor of Eurocopter helicopters, is in talks with authorities to sell choppers to India for emergency medical service-- the first such service in the country.

''America, Australia and every European country has this service,'' Vectra incharge Guy Joannes told UNI.

He says such service is the need of the hour which India can ill afford to ignore.

But for these helicopters, he points out, basic requirements, such as special helipads occupying a very small area, must exist.

Vectra Aviation, which sells chartered helicopters, has several choppers lined up for India for corporate purposes.

''By 2009, we will sell 10-12 helicopters to corporates in India,'' says Mr Joannes, whose company participated in the India Aviation 2008, first-ever civilian airshow, held at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad recently.

On display at the airshow was 'Squirrel', the world famous single engine Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, which has created a world record with its landing and take off on top of Mt Everest at 29,000 ft.

Also on static display was light twin engine EC135, bought by India Bulls.

Mr Joannes says Vectra Aviation, based at Greater Noida, is a one stop shop that provide spares inventory, maintenance repair and overhaul, mechanics, trained pilots and all the services associated with the operational use of Eurocopter helicopters.

''By January 2009, we will be setting up a world class paint shop at this facility,'' he says.

The shop will be an opportunity for any civil operators to paint, repaint or touch up their helicopters or aircraft parts under professional conditions, compliant with all latest environmental legislations, he adds.

UNI YJ SP CS1028