Erickson Incorporated, a leading operator, maintainer, and manufacturer of utility aircraft, has announced the delivery of the K7 S-64 Air Crane helicopter to the Korea Forest Service (KFS). On Nov. 22, the K7 aircraft was loaded onto an Antonov An-124 out of Medford, Oregon — Erickson’s manufacturing facility.
The S-64 is well-known in Korea with a strong reputation for being the best firefighting aircraft available, the company said.
In 2001, KFS was the first foreign government to purchase S-64 helicopters from Erickson. Due to their success with the aircraft, KFS continues to modify and upgrade its fleet with the addition of K7, incorporating the latest modifications, including composite-made rotor blades and a glass cockpit. KFS continues to be a leader in aerial firefighting, utilizing the most robust aircraft for the toughest job.
“Our delivery of K7 solidifies the Korea Forest Service’s belief in our platform and its capability,” said Hayden Olsen, vice president of Aerosystems. “KFS put the S-64 Air Crane in service to save property and lives, and everyone here on the Erickson team is very proud of that. This is the final manifestation of a lot of hard work, and we are honored to continue to service South Korea.”