Hong Kong GFS receives first H175s

The Hong Kong Government Flying Service (GFS) has received three H175 helicopters in public service configuration. The GFS is the world’s first operator of this variant of the chopper, which is now fully equipped for search and rescue, emergency medical, law enforcement, firefighting and land and maritime border control operations.

The deal for the helicopters was first signed back in 2015, with seven helicopters on order; the remaining four will be delivered by the end of 2018. GFS will be replacing its AS332 L2 and H155 helicopters, which are currently utilised for 24/7 emergency support, with the new H175s. Among the new capabilities and equipment on the H175 are adaptable cabin configurations, electro-optical display systems, dual hoists, search lights and infrared cameras.

“The Government Flying Service has been very involved in the development of this new H175 version and it is a great honor to be here today to receive the first three aircraft,” commented Michael Chan, Controller Head of GFS. “Thanks to the H175’s speed, advanced technology and versatility, we will not only be able to strengthen our response capability but also be able to intervene in the most complex situations and in a large variety of scenarios.”