Karen Helicopter Services takes delivery of two Bell 505s

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 206. 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 the EASA certification will be granted, while HB- ZXL has utility interior and 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 tool for mountain operations.

Luca Carlino, Director of the company and Head of Training, commented: “The Bell 505 will modernise and enlarge our current fleet of three Bell 206. The Bell 505 provides excellent comfort and performance for passengers and pilots, along with modern avionics consisting of Garmin G1000H NXi. The two helicopter will be used as well as IFR trainer, with the purpose to increase pilot flying experience on helicopter while reducing costs compared to a multi-engine helicopter.” 

This purchase is as well part of a strategic investment related to the Karen’s Aviation Training Center, which incorporates aircrew and technical personnel training under Part-147. Karen’s development plan includes the acquisition of other trainer helicopters and strategic development that will be unveiled soon.