View source for MBB/Kawasaki BK 117

{{Short description|German/Japanese utility helicopter}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2024}}
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout. -->
{{Infobox aircraft
| name = BK 117 <!--please avoid stating manufacturer in this field; it's stated two lines below -->
| image = File:BK-117 Polizei-NRW D-HNWL.jpg
| caption = A BK 117 of the [[Landespolizei|German police]]
| type = Utility / Transport
| national_origin = [[Germany]] / [[Japan]]
| manufacturer = [[Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm]] (MBB)/[[Kawasaki Heavy Industries]]
| designer = <!--only appropriate for single designers, not project leaders-->
| first_flight = 13 June 1979
| introduction = 9 December 1982
| retired = <!--date the aircraft left military or revenue service. if vague or multiples, it probably should be skipped-->
| status = In production
| primary_user = [[:de:DRF Luftrettung|DRF]]
| more_users = [[ADAC]]
| produced = 1979–present
| number_built = 
| developed_from = 
| developed_into = [[Eurocopter EC145]]
}}

The '''MBB/Kawasaki BK 117''' is a twin-engined light [[Utility helicopter|utility]]–[[transport helicopter]]. It was jointly developed and manufactured by [[Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm]] (MBB) of [[Germany]] and [[Kawasaki Heavy Industries|Kawasaki]] of [[Japan]]. MBB was later purchased by [[Daimler-Benz]] and eventually became a part of [[Eurocopter]], which was later rebranded as [[Airbus Helicopters]].

On 25 February 1977, MBB and Kawasaki signed a cooperative agreement to abandon their independent efforts to design twin-engined general purpose helicopters in favour of a collaborative venture to development of a new rotorcraft for that role. While the programme's costs were shared equally, the workshare was divided into certain areas of the design. MBB utilised their expertise with the rigid rotor system used on the earlier [[MBB Bo 105|Bo 105]] to develop the majority of the dynamic systems and flight controls, while Kawasaki focused on the airframe, structural elements, and various other components. On 13 June 1979, MBB's flying prototype conducted its [[maiden flight]] at [[Ottobrunn]], [[Bavaria]], Germany; months later, it was followed by the Kawasaki prototype at [[Gifu Prefecture|Gifu]], [[Chūbu region]], Japan on 10 August 1979.

Each company established their own final assembly line, producing the BK 117 for their respective regions. The BK 117 has proven to be popular for passenger services and VIP-transport, the cabin can be outfitted with various seating configurations, seating between seven and ten passengers. It is also used for a diverse range of operations, such as [[Aerial crane (helicopter)|aerial crane]] and sling work, [[Law enforcement agency|law enforcement]], and [[Military transport aircraft|military transport]], and is exceptional as an [[air ambulance]] and [[search and rescue]] platform. During the 1990s, due to its popularity, a refined derivative, initially marketed as the '''BK 117 C-2''' before being rebranded as the [[Eurocopter EC 145|EC 145]] and later as the '''H145''', was developed from the BK 117 C-1 version; this improved version of the rotorcraft has since succeeded the original BK 117 in production.

The original BK 117, Eurocopter EC 145, and Airbus Helicopters H145, are typically thought of as being in one design family, despite different marketing and naming.

==Development==
===Origins===
[[File:BK 117 im Hubschraubermuseum Bueckeburg.jpg|thumb|left|Second prototype at [[Hubschraubermuseum Bückeburg]] in Germany]]
[[File:MBB Kawasaki BK117P-5 ‘JQ0003’ (48183375721).jpg|thumb|Third prototype of the BK 117, on display since 2001 in Japan]]
According to aviation author J. Mac. McCellan, the BK 117 has its origins in an earlier rotorcraft designed and produced by [[Germany|German]] aerospace manufacturer [[Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm]] (MBB), the [[MBB Bo 105]].<ref name = "mcce 64">McCellan 1986, p. 64.</ref> This helicopter, which proved to be a commercial success, had made use of a revolutionary [[hinge]]less main rotor composed of [[fibreglass]], which was developed by German engineer [[Ludwig Bölkow]]. Having established a reputation for reliability and safety, during the early 1970s MBB, along with one of its major [[shareholder]]s, [[Boeing Rotorcraft Systems|Boeing Vertol]], began studying options for producing an enlarged derivative of the type to accompany the Bo 105.<ref name = "mcce 64 66">McCellan 1986, pp. 64, 66.</ref> However, Boeing soon withdrew from the venture, leading to MBB searching for another partner; this was found in the form of [[Japan]]ese company [[Kawasaki Heavy Industries]].<ref name = "mcce 66">McCellan 1986, p. 66.</ref>

On 25 February 1977, MBB and Kawasaki signed an agreement to cooperate on the development of a new rotorcraft. Under the terms of this agreement, the two corporations merged their previously separate projects to produce twin-engined general purpose helicopters, these being the ''Bo 107'' by MBB and the ''KH-7'' from Kawasaki.<ref name="AI p163">''Air International'' April 1989, p. 163.</ref> All of the privately incurred development costs were shared equally between the two partners; in November 1977, the programme received a huge boost when the government of [[West Germany]] announced that it would fund half of the costs of development.<ref name = "light mil forecast">[http://www.forecastinternational.com/samples/F602_CompleteSample.pdf "The Market for Light Military Rotorcraft."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120821114436/http://www.forecastinternational.com/samples/F602_CompleteSample.pdf |date=21 August 2012 }} ''Forecast International'', November 2010.</ref> By April 1978, project definition studies had been completed, enabling the joint venture to proceed with the detail design phase of development.<ref name = "light mil forecast"/>

Separate elements of the design were assigned to each company; MBB were responsible for developing the [[Helicopter rotor|rotor]]s (these were based on the rigid rotor system previously used on MBB's [[MBB Bo 105|Bo 105]]), tailboom, [[flight control]]s and [[hydraulics|hydraulic]] system while Kawasaki undertook the development of the [[landing gear]], [[airframe]], main transmission, electrical system and other minor components.<ref name = "mcce 66"/> German [[vehicle]] manufacturer [[BMW]] acted as a consultant on the styling of the BK 117.<ref name = "light mil forecast"/> As per their agreement, each company established their own final assembly line for the type, on which they would produce the rotorcraft to meet demands within their respective local markets.<ref name="AI p164">''Air International'' April 1989, p. 164.</ref><ref name = "mcce 66"/>

Originally, each company intended to construct a pair of [[prototype]]s (in actuality, Kawasaki opted to only build a single prototype) which were to be completed by 1979; one for flight testing purposes and the others for tie down testing and static testing. On 13 June 1979, MBB's flying prototype conducted its [[maiden flight]] at [[Ottobrunn]], [[Bavaria]], Germany; months later, it was followed by the Kawasaki prototype at [[Gifu Prefecture|Gifu]], [[Chūbu region]], Japan on 10 August 1979.<ref name="AI p164"/><ref name = "light mil forecast"/> The pace of development on the programme had been slower than expected, a problem that was exacerbated by a shortage of skilled manpower that was available at MBB. Although it was originally planned for the rotorcraft's [[type certificate|airworthiness certification]] to be achieved before the end of 1980, German certification was not achieved until 9 December 1982, being quickly followed by the receipt of Japanese certification on 17 December 1982. On 29 March 1983, the type secured the all-important [[United States]] [[Federal Aviation Administration]] (FAA) certification, clearing it for widespread use.<ref name="AI p164-5">''Air International'' April 1989, pp. 164–165.</ref><ref name = "light mil forecast"/>

===Further development===
[[File:D-HAOE (45562374591).jpg|thumb|BK 117 in 2018]]
[[File:East Anglian Air Ambulance.jpg|thumb|In service as an air ambulance, 2008]]

During 1983, the initial production version, designated as the ''BK 117A-1'' was first delivered.<ref name = "light mil forecast"/> Improved variants were quickly developed; in early 1985, the ''BK 117A-3'', featuring an increased maximum takeoff weight and an enlarged tail rotor with twisted airfoils, was certified; two years later, the ''BK 117A-4'', equipped with LTS 101-750B-1 engines for improved hot/high performance and increased maximum takeoff weight, along with improvements to the main rotor transmission and tail rotor mast, as well as a larger capacity fuel tank, was introduced.<ref name = "light mil forecast"/> During 1990, MBB's American division launched a dedicated corporate version of the BK 117; it was furnished with a [[Honeywell]]-built SPZ-7000 digital automatic [[flight control system]] and a cocoon-type interior system; optional extras included a Bendix/King [[flight instruments|electronic flight instrumentation system]] (EFIS) and a clamshell cabin door. During 1992, the ''BK 117C-1'', equipped with a revised EFIS panel and an improved environmental control system, along with greater hot-and-high performance, was introduced to service.<ref name = "light mil forecast"/>

At one stage, there was considerable attention paid to the concept of a dedicated militarised variant of the type.<ref name = "light mil forecast"/> During the 1985 [[Paris Air Show]], the concept of an armed [[attack helicopter]] derivative, referred to as the ''BK 117A-3M'', was revealed to the general public. As promoted, this variant would have been capable of being armed with launchers for eight [[Euromissile]] [[HOT (missile)|HOT 2]] missiles and a chin-mounted [[Lucas Industries|Lucas]]-built [[gun turret|turret]] for a Browning 12.7mm [[machine gun]], aimed using a [[helmet-mounted sight]].<ref name = "light mil forecast"/> It was also to be equipped with various advanced targeting sensors, including an SFIM APX-M 397 roof-mounted stabilized [[sight]]. In order to provide sufficient ground clearance for the gun turret, the use of higher skid landing gear would have also been necessitated.<ref name = "light mil forecast"/>

During the 1990s, as a result of the commercial success of the type, a refined derivative, initially marketed as the ''BK 117 C-2'' prior to its rebranding as the [[Eurocopter EC 145|EC 145]] and later as the ''H145'', was developed from the BK 117 C-1 version; this improved version of the rotorcraft has succeeded and eventually replaced the original BK 117 in production. In total, 443 BK 117s were manufactured by the two partners; 329 (and two prototypes) were produced by MBB at their Donauworth facility while 111 (and one prototype) were completed by Kawasaki in Japan. During the 1980s, an agreement was formed with [[Indonesian Aerospace]], enabling the type to be [[licensed production|produced under license]] in [[Indonesia]], which was accordingly designated as the ''NBK 117''; however, according to economics author Sören Eriksson, the Indonesian production programme was terminated after only a handful of rotorcraft were completed.<ref>Eriksson 2013, p. 153.</ref><ref name = "light mil forecast"/>

Since exiting production, third parties have produced their own upgrade programmes for existing BK 117s. In 2010, Airwork launched its conversion programme for the type, replacing the original LTS101-750B-1 engine with the newer LTS101-850B-2 engine, increasing both its performance, reliability and safety margins, resulting in the ''BK117-850D2''; by 2016, Airwork had upgraded nearly 50 rotorcraft in this manner.<ref>Williams, Daniel. [http://aviationweek.com/blog/50-and-counting-bk117-850d2 "50 And Counting For The BK117-850D2."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117122054/http://aviationweek.com/blog/50-and-counting-bk117-850d2 |date=17 November 2017 }} ''[[Aviation Week]]'', 12 September 2016.</ref>

==Design==
[[File:Polair 5-Fire 1 BK-117 B2 - Flickr - Highway Patrol Images.jpg|thumb|left|Head on view of BK 117]]
[[File:MBB BK 117-B2 2.jpg|thumb|Bk 117 B2 cockpit]]
[[File:Polizeihubschrauber (10567007824).jpg|thumb|Doors open BK 117 P2]]
The MBB/Kawasaki BK 117 is a twin-engined medium [[Utility helicopter|utility]]–[[transport helicopter]]. It possessed several attributes that lend itself to performing many different roles, such as twin-engine redundancy, sizable [[Bivalve shell|clamshell]]-shaped rear-facing double doors, and a relatively spacious cabin; one mission to which it was deemed to be suitable was the [[emergency medical services]] (EMS).<ref name = "mcce 62 64">McCellan 1986, p. 62, 64.</ref> The airframe is composed of [[rivet]]ted metal, making minimal use of [[Composite material|composite]] materials, in order to free up internal space, both the engines and transmission are positioned above the main cabin. Considerable efforts were made to reduce the weight of the aircraft where possible albeit without compromising the aircraft's structural integrity.<ref name = "mcce 66"/> The cabin could be configured with various interiors in order to suit its purpose.<ref name = "mcce 66 67"/>

Early versions of the BK 117 were powered by a pair of [[Lycoming LTS101]] [[turboshaft]] engines, rated to generate 550 shp at takeoff with considerable reserve power to guard against a single engine failure.<ref name = "mcce 66"/> While each engine possesses sufficient power to maintain flight and even takeoff in the event of a single engine being rendered inoperable, the type also has favourable [[autorotation]] capabilities. In order to extend their operational lifespan and increase their reliability, MBB tuned the engines to operate at lower-than-standard [[revolutions per minute]] (RPM).<ref name = "mcce 66 67">McCellan 1986, pp. 66–67.</ref> The engines are regulated using a specialised control system which smoothly and evenly regulate RPM and [[torque]] between both engines, even during vigorous manoeuvers.<ref name = "mcce 66"/> Power management has been greatly eased via the addition of an automatic engine-[[Governor (device)|governor]] system, allowing pilots to simply monitor the torque and engine temperature gauges. The aircraft can be suitably equipped for flight under [[instrument flight rules]] (IFR) as well as for single-pilot operations.<ref name = "mcce 66"/>

According to aviation publication [[Flying Magazine|''Flying'']], as a consequence of its uncommon rigid main [[rotor blade|rotor]] system, the BK 117 possessed relatively high stability and manoeuvrability which, amongst other capabilities, reportedly gave the type the ability to perform a steeper approach than any other helicopter in its class.<ref name = "mcce 66"/> The four-bladed main rotor was smaller and slower-turning than many of its contemporaries, reducing both vibration and noise while also enabling the type to use more compact landing sites. The high-mounted tail boom and tail rotor of the BK 117 also presented several benefits, such as enhanced safety to personnel on the ground.<ref name = "mcce 67">McCellan 1986, p. 67.</ref> In terms of its flight performance, the type was considered to be suitable for the execution of various [[Aerobatics|aerobatic]] manoeuvres, such as flying loops and rolls, while retaining such levels of inherent stability that pilots could readily release both the [[Helicopter flight controls#Cyclic|cyclic]] and [[Helicopter flight controls#Collective|collective]] controls, unlike the majority of rotorcraft.<ref name = "mcce 66 67"/> An optional [[Sperry Corporation|Sperry]]-built three-axis stability augmentation system also served to improve the rotorcraft's ease of handling.<ref name = "mcce 66 67"/>

==Operational history==
{{expand section|date=November 2017}}
A single BK 117 A-3 (c/n 7106) was leased by the [[Canadian Forces Air Command]] for a test program and designated as the '''CH-143'''. When the program was over, the aircraft was returned to MBB Canada.<ref name=autogenerated1>{{cite web|url=http://www.rcaf.com/aircraft/helicopters/bk117/index.php?name=CH-143%20BK%20117 |title=MBB CH-143 BK 117 |publisher = [[Royal Canadian Air Force]] |access-date=25 March 2007 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20050910050246/http://www.rcaf.com/aircraft/helicopters/bk117/index.php?name=CH-143+BK+117 |archive-date=10 September 2005 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

A BK 117 helicopter contracted by the [[New South Wales Rural Fire Service]] to fight fires crashed on 17 August 2018, the pilot died in the crash.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Khalil |first1=Shireen |title=nsw act Pilot of Rural Fire Service helicopter dies after crash |url=https://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/pilot-of-the-rural-fire-service-helicopter-feared-dead-after-crash/news-story/82574e1049e5da19ea7e6704a0cf344d |access-date=17 August 2018 |publisher=News.com.au |date=17 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180817061555/https://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/pilot-of-the-rural-fire-service-helicopter-feared-dead-after-crash/news-story/82574e1049e5da19ea7e6704a0cf344d |archive-date=17 August 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Variants==
[[File:BK117.jpg|thumb|BK 117 P2 in Police service]]
[[File:Polizeihubschrauber (10566908725).jpg|thumb|Cockpit view of Super Puma]]
[[File:JASDF BK-117 A4.jpg|thumb|JASDF BK 117 A4]]
;BK 117 P-2 (D-HBKA):German prototype, first flown 13 June 1979. Now exhibited at the Bückeburg helicopter museum, Bückeburg, Germany.
;BK 117 S-01 (D-HDRF):Initial pre-production prototype. Now preserved on top of the DRF-Headquarters at Stuttgart Airport.
;BK 117 P-3/P-5 (JQ0003):Japanese prototype, first flown 10 August 1979. Now exhibited at Kakamigahara Aerospace Museum, Kakamigahara/Gifu, Japan
;BK 117 A-1 :Powered by two Lycoming LTS 101-650B-1 engines. First flown 23 April 1982.
;BK 117 A-3 :Introduced in March 1985, the A-3 has a larger tail rotor with improved blades, Yaw CSAS, improved stability (SPAS) and the take-off weight increased to 3,200&nbsp;kg (7,055&nbsp;lb).- The Canadian Armed forces leased a single BK 117-A3 for a test program and designated it the CH-143. When the program was over, the aircraft was returned to MBB Canada<ref name="BK 117 CH-143">{{cite web|url=http://www.canadianwings.com/Aircraft/aircraftDetail.php?BK-117-175 |title=BK 117 CH-143 |publisher=canadianwings.com |access-date=2 February 2013 |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130922031712/http://www.canadianwings.com/Aircraft/aircraftDetail.php?BK-117-175 |archive-date=22 September 2013 }}</ref>
;BK 117 A-4 :Introduced in July 1986, the A-4 has increased transmission limits at take-off power, improved tail rotor head. German aircraft have provision for extra internal fuel, giving enhanced performance.
;BK 117 A-3M :Military version introduced in 1986. The A-3M is fitted with taller skids and can carry 11 troops. A Browning 12.7&nbsp;mm (0.5&nbsp;in) [[machine gun]] can be mounted under the fuselage in a Lucas turret with 450 rounds and controlled by a helmet-mounted sight. The A-3M also has outrigger pylons which can hold up to eight HOT II or TOW antitank missiles or a variety of air-to-air missiles, rocket-pods, or forward-firing cannons. Provisions for a doorway gunner's position with a 12.7&nbsp;mm (0.5&nbsp;in) gun can also be installed.
;BK 117 B-1 :Introduced in December 1987, the B-1 is fitted with LTS 101-750B-1 engines to provide increased performance, and a 140&nbsp;kg (309&nbsp;lb) increase in payload.
;BK 117 B-1C :UK-certified version with reduced range and endurance.
;BK 117 B-2 :Maximum Gross Weight increased to 3,350&nbsp;kg, 2 x Allied Signal Lycoming LTS101-750B-1 engines fitted as standard, new tail rotor blades, improved "hot and high" performance, take-off/landing limitation increased to 15,000&nbsp;ft, improved flight performance for: HIGE/HOGE, single engine service ceiling.
;BK 117 C-1 :Powered by two [[Turbomeca Arriel]] 1E engines. Later models may be upgraded to Arriel 1E2 engines.
;NBK 117 :[[licensed production|License-built]] model produced in Indonesia by [[Indonesian Aerospace]].<ref name="ETTPR">The Emerging Technological Trajectory of the Pacific Rim by Denis Fred Simon, page 193.</ref>
;BK 117-850D2 :Introduced in 2010, the 850D2 variant is an STC (Supplementary Type Certificate) development (i.e., re-engined) of BK 117 B-2 incorporating Honeywell LTS 101-850B-2 engines aimed at improving OEI and Category A performance.<ref>[http://honeywell.com/News/Pages/02.22.09EurocopterBK117.aspx "Honeywell Announces LTS101-850B-2 Engine Upgrade for Eurocopter BK117."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110712215554/http://honeywell.com/News/Pages/02.22.09EurocopterBK117.aspx |date=12 July 2011 }} ''Honeywell'', 22 February 2009.</ref> Development and certification was conducted in New Zealand by Airwork of Ardmore, NZ, in conjunction with Flight Structures Ltd.<ref>[http://www.flightstructures.co.nz/news/2010-05-01-airwork-nz-s-bk117-850d2-takes-to-the-skies-over-australia-and-new-zealand/ "Airwork (NZ)’s BK117-850D2 takes to the skies over Australia and New Zealand."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130207025725/http://www.flightstructures.co.nz/News/2010-05-01-airwork-nz-s-bk117-850d2-takes-to-the-skies-over-australia-and-new-zealand/ |date=7 February 2013 }} ''Flight Structures Ltd'', 1 May 2010.</ref>
NOTE: All later models are derived from the BK 117 by Eurocopter Deutschland and later Airbus Helicopters.<br />
The models BK 117-C2, -D2 and -D3 are therefore better known under their commercial naming convention [[Eurocopter EC145|EC145 and H145.]] Nevertheless, all models share the same EASA Type Certificate (see EASA Type Certificate Data Sheet).<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.easa.europa.eu/sites/default/files/dfu/TCDS_EASA_R010_AHD_BK117_Issue_18.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=19 April 2021 |archive-date=19 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419135257/https://www.easa.europa.eu/sites/default/files/dfu/TCDS_EASA_R010_AHD_BK117_Issue_18.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==Operators==
===Military and government===
;{{AUS}}
* [[Fire and Rescue NSW]]<ref name=" FireAir 1 ">{{cite web|title=FireAir 1 |publisher=fire.nsw.gov.au |url=http://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=241 |access-date=5 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130425123102/http://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=241 |archive-date=25 April 2013 }}</ref> (formerly)
*[[New South Wales Rural Fire Service]]
[[File:D-HNWQ MBB BK-117 Polizei (7740187134).jpg|thumb|A [[Federal Police (Germany)|Polizei]] BK 117 ]]
* [[Western Australia Police]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stepforward.wa.gov.au/your-career/air-wing.html |title=WA Police Air Wing |publisher=stepforward.wa.gov.au |access-date=2 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130209014813/http://www.stepforward.wa.gov.au/your-career/air-wing.html |archive-date=9 February 2013 }}</ref>
;{{CHL}}
* [[Chilean Air Force]]<ref name="WORLD AIR FORCES 2013">{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/101015/world-air-forces-2013.pdf |title= World Air Forces 2013 |publisher= Flightglobal Insight |year= 2013 |access-date= 2 February 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131102181313/http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/101015/world-air-forces-2013.pdf |archive-date= 2 November 2013 |url-status= live }}</ref>
* [[Carabineros de Chile]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.helis.com/database/model/399/ |title=(MBB BK 117) Carabineros de Chile |access-date=2 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130616083216/http://www.helis.com/database/model/399/ |archive-date=16 June 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.airliners.net/photo/Chile---Carabineros/Eurocopter-Kawasaki-BK-117B-1/1534914/L/&sid=efb14af56dd018f54df1ed419e058d7c |title=Kawasaki BK-117B-1 |publisher=Demand media |access-date=2 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130922004531/http://www.airliners.net/photo/Chile---Carabineros/Eurocopter-Kawasaki-BK-117B-1/1534914/L/%26sid%3Defb14af56dd018f54df1ed419e058d7c |archive-date=22 September 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>
;{{COL}}
* [[Colombian National Armada]]<ref name="WORLD AIR FORCES 2013"/>
[[File:SX-HFH over Athens.jpg|thumb|right|SX-HFH. a BK-117 of the Hellenic Fire Service]]
; {{GRC}}
* [[Hellenic Fire Service]] – Operates three BK-117C1s.<ref>Scharenborg 2022, p. 70</ref>
; {{JPN}}
* [[Prefectural police department]]s<ref>{{Cite web|editor=Saitama Prefectural Police|url=https://www.police.pref.saitama.lg.jp/d0010/kenke/koukuutai.html|title=航空隊の紹介|access-date=2018-11-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181106092926/https://www.police.pref.saitama.lg.jp/d0010/kenke/koukuutai.html|archive-date=6 November 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
;{{MAD}}
* [[Malagasy Air Force]]<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Martin |first=Guy |title=Madagascar's military receives more aircraft |magazine=[[Air International]] |date=September 2019 |volume=97 |issue=3 |page=9 |issn=0306-5634}}</ref>
; {{PER}}
* [[Peruvian National Police]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cavok-aviation-photos.net/policiadelperu.htm |title=Base Aérea Lima-Callao Policia Nacional del Peru |publisher=cavok-aviation |access-date=2 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921223843/http://www.cavok-aviation-photos.net/policiadelperu.htm |archive-date=21 September 2013 }}</ref>
;{{RUS}}
[[File:RATS operators on a helicopter.jpeg|thumb|[[Saitama Prefecture|Saitama Prefectural]] Police BK 117]]
* [[Ministry of Emergency Situations (Russia)|Ministry of Emergency Situations]]<ref>Mlandenov ''Air International'' December 2016, pp. 85–86.</ref>
;{{flag|Spain}}
* [[Guardia Civil]]<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/waf/spain/ng/spain-ng-home.htm |title= Spanish Guardia Civil |publisher= aeroflight.co.uk |access-date= 2 February 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130107132405/http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/waf/spain/ng/spain-ng-home.htm |archive-date= 7 January 2013 |url-status= dead }}</ref>
;{{ZAF}}
* [[South African Air Force]]<ref name="WORLD AIR FORCES 2013"/>
* [[South African Police Service]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/press/South-African-Police-Service-signs-for-its-7th-Eurocopter-AS-350-B3-at-AAD-2004_278.html?iframe=true&width=700 |title=South African Police Service signs for its 7th Eurocopter AS 350 B3 at AAD 2004 |publisher=Eurocopter |access-date=2 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130922030050/http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/press/South-African-Police-Service-signs-for-its-7th-Eurocopter-AS-350-B3-at-AAD-2004_278.html?iframe=true&width=700 |archive-date=22 September 2013 }}</ref>

;{{USA}}
* [[Riverside County Sheriff's Department]] (California)<ref>{{cite web |url= https://flightaware.com/resources/registration/N995RC |title= County of Riverside Sheriff Aircraft Registration |publisher=FlightAware |access-date=26 November 2021 }}</ref>

===Civil===
[[File:PolAir 5 BK-117 B2 - Flickr - Highway Patrol (cropped).jpg|thumb|A PolAir 5' BK 117 in flight]]
[[File:STARSFMC.jpg|thumb|right|[[Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society|STARS]] Air Ambulance at [[Foothills Medical Centre]] in Canada]]
The majority of the helicopters are operated by various emergency services although it is also operated by private individuals, companies and executive charter operators.
;{{AUS}}
* [[CareFlight]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://careflight.org/about/aircraft/helicopters1/|title=Careflight: Our Helicopters|publisher=careflight.org|access-date=2015-06-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150630234049/http://careflight.org/about/aircraft/helicopters1/|archive-date=30 June 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter Service|Westpac Life Saver Rescue Service]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lifesaver.org.au/operations/the-westpac-life-saver-aircraft |title=lifesaver Fleet |publisher=lifesaver.org.au |access-date=2 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130114135404/http://lifesaver.org.au/operations/the-westpac-life-saver-aircraft |archive-date=14 January 2013 }}</ref>
; {{CAN}}

* [https://www.yhl.ca Yellowhead Helicopters Ltd.]

* [[Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society]]<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.stars.ca/ab/what-we-do/helicopter-air-ambulance/our-helicopter-fleet|title= STARS fleet|publisher= stars.ca|access-date= 2 February 2013|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131029193637/http://www.stars.ca/ab/what-we-do/helicopter-air-ambulance/our-helicopter-fleet|archive-date= 29 October 2013|url-status= dead}}</ref>
* Helico Secours<ref>{{Cite web |title=Équipage et flotte |url=https://www.helicosecours.ca/la-cooperative/pourquoi-choisir-helico-secours/equipage-et-flotte |access-date=2023-06-08 |website=Helico Secours coopérative de solidarité}}</ref>
* Airmedic
;{{KEN}}
[[File:Airmedic Bk117 B2.jpg|thumb|220x220px|Airmedic BK117 B2 in flight]]
* Everett Aviation<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.everettaviation.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9&Itemid=28 |title=Everatt's BK 117 C1 |publisher=everettaviation.com |access-date=2 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130310090501/http://everettaviation.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9&Itemid=28 |archive-date=10 March 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref>
;{{NZL}}
[[File:Westpac Rescue Helicopter 2009 RNZAF Base Whenuapai Air Show.jpg|thumb|BK 117 in service with [[Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust]]]]
*[[Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust]]<ref>{{cite web |url= http://rescuehelicopter.org.nz |title= Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust (fleet) |publisher= rescuehelicopter.org.nz |access-date= 7 March 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150325225712/http://rescuehelicopter.org.nz/ |archive-date= 25 March 2015 |url-status= live }}</ref>
*[[Life Flight (New Zealand)]]<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.lifeflight.org.nz/what-we-do/helicopter-rescue-services |title= Westpac Rescue Helicopter |publisher= lifeflight.org.nz |access-date= 11 April 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180412001446/https://www.lifeflight.org.nz/what-we-do/helicopter-rescue-services |archive-date= 12 April 2018 |url-status= live }}</ref>
* Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.airrescue.co.nz/who-we-are/canterbury-westpac-rescue-helicopter/ |title = Learn more about our Canterbury Westpac Rescue Helicopter |publisher = airrescue.co.nz |access-date = 23 June 2020 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200623004151/https://www.airrescue.co.nz/who-we-are/canterbury-westpac-rescue-helicopter/ |archive-date= 23 June 2020 |url-status= live}}</ref>
* [[Otago Rescue Helicopter Trust]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.otagorescue.co.nz/helicopterinfo.php |title=Otago Rescue Helicopter Trust (fleet) |publisher=otagorescue.co.nz |access-date=2 July 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130630035551/http://www.otagorescue.co.nz/helicopterinfo.php |archive-date=30 June 2013 }}</ref>
;{{SWI}}
* [[Rega (air rescue)]] : 7 H145 since 2018, replacing the EC145
;{{TWN}}
* Daily Air Corporation<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.dailyair.com.tw/uploadfile/DAC%20Profile%20All-Web%202012.pdf |title= Daily Air Operations |publisher= dailyair.com.tw |access-date= 2 February 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121119074820/http://www.dailyair.com.tw/uploadfile/DAC%20Profile%20All-Web%202012.pdf |archive-date= 19 November 2012 |url-status= dead }}</ref>
;{{THA}}
* Si Chang Flying Services<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.airliners.net/photo/Si-Chang-Flying-Service-SFS/MBB-Kawasaki-BK-117B-1/456194 |title=MBB-Kawasaki BK-117B-1 – Si Chang Flying Service – SFS}}</ref>
;{{USA}}
* [[Air Methods]]<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.airmethods.com/airmethods/about-us |title= airmethods fleet |publisher= airmethods.com |access-date= 2 February 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130212032257/http://www.airmethods.com/airmethods/about-us |archive-date= 12 February 2013 |url-status= live }}</ref>
*[[St. Louis Children's Hospital]]<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.stlouischildrens.org/our-services/transport-services/modes-transport/kidsflight-1 |title= KidsFlight 1 |publisher= stlouischildrens.org |access-date= 2 February 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130921201535/http://www.stlouischildrens.org/our-services/transport-services/modes-transport/kidsflight-1 |archive-date= 21 September 2013 |url-status= live }}</ref>
*[[Orlando Regional Medical Center]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://orlandohealth.com/orlandoregionalmedicalcenter/ourmedicalspecialties/AirCareTeam.aspx?pid=4496 |title=ORMC Aircare 1 |publisher=Orlando Health |access-date=12 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131006200554/http://www.orlandohealth.com/orlandoregionalmedicalcenter/ourmedicalspecialties/AirCareTeam.aspx?pid=4496 |archive-date=6 October 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Former===
;{{flag|Bophuthatswana}}
* [[Bophuthatswana Air Force]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203091.html|title=World Air Forces 1991 pg. 37|publisher=flightglobal.com|access-date=6 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402151712/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203091.html|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>
;{{CAN}}
* [[Canadian Forces Air Command]]<ref name="BK 117 CH-143"/>
;{{flag|Ciskei}}
[[File:SAAF MBB Bk117A-3 382 (6929091397).jpg|thumb|BK 117 in service with the [[South African Air Force]]]]
* [[Ciskei Defence Force]]<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203095.html |title= World Air Forces 1991 pg. 41 |publisher= flightglobal.com |access-date= 6 March 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150402103350/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203095.html |archive-date= 2 April 2015 |url-status= live }}</ref>
;{{GER}}
* [[ADAC]]<ref>{{cite web |title=ADAC Air Rescue confirms the choice of Eurocopter to renew its helicopter fleet with the EC145 T2 and EC135 |url=http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/press/ADAC-Air-Rescue-confirms-the-choice-of-Eurocopter-to-renew-its-helicopter-fleet-with-the-EC145-T2-and-EC135_965.html?iframe=true&width=700 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121116161655/http://www.eurocopter.com/site/en/press/ADAC-Air-Rescue-confirms-the-choice-of-Eurocopter-to-renew-its-helicopter-fleet-with-the-EC145-T2-and-EC135_965.html?iframe=true&width=700 |archive-date=16 November 2012 |access-date=2 February 2013 |publisher=eurocopter.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=BK-117C |url=http://www.airliners.net/photo/ADAC-Luftrettung/Eurocopter-Kawasaki-BK-117C-1/2179895/L/&sid=4afd836531e6ffdf58280092ce1d918f |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921145723/http://www.airliners.net/photo/ADAC-Luftrettung/Eurocopter-Kawasaki-BK-117C-1/2179895/L/%26sid%3D4afd836531e6ffdf58280092ce1d918f |archive-date=21 September 2013 |access-date=2 February 2013 |publisher=Demand media}}</ref>
*[[Emergency medical services in Germany#Air Ambulance|DRF Luftrettung]]<ref>{{cite web |title=DRF Luftrettung BK 117 |url=http://www.helis.com/database/modelorg/1554/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130616100029/http://www.helis.com/database/modelorg/1554/ |archive-date=16 June 2013 |access-date=2 February 2013}}</ref>
*Bundeswehr
*German State Police
;{{flag|Transkei}}
* [[Transkei#Security forces|Transkei Defence Force]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203119.html|title=World Air Forces 1991 pg. 65|publisher=flightglobal.com|access-date=6 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402101638/http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203119.html|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>
;{{flag|Venda}}
* [[Venda|Venda Defence Force]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203125.html|title=World Air Forces 1991 pg. 71|publisher=flightglobal.com|access-date=6 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161202234618/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1991/1991%20-%203125.html|archive-date=2 December 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Specifications (BK 117 B-2)==
{{Aircraft specs
|ref= ''Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1993–94''<ref name="Janes 93 p159-0">Lambert 1993, pp. 159–160.</ref>
|prime units?=met<!-- imp or kts first for US aircraft, and UK aircraft pre-metrification, met(ric) first for all others. You MUST choose a format, or no specifications will show -->
<!--
        General characteristics
-->
|genhide=
|crew=1
|capacity=up to 10 passengers
|length m=9.91
|length ft=
|length in=
|length note=(fuselage length)
|swept in=<!-- swing-wings -->
|swept note=
|dia m=<!-- airships etc -->
|dia ft=<!-- airships etc -->
|dia in=<!-- airships etc -->
|dia note=
|width m=<!-- if applicable -->
|width ft=<!-- if applicable -->
|width in=<!-- if applicable -->
|width note=
|height m=3.85
|height ft=
|height in=
|height note=(rotors turning)
|airfoil=
|empty weight kg=1727
|empty weight lb=
|empty weight note=
|gross weight kg=
|gross weight lb=
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight kg=3350
|max takeoff weight lb=
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity=697 L (183 US Gallons, 153 Imp Gallons) internal fuel
|more general=
<!--
        Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 name=[[Honeywell LTS101|Textron Lycoming LTS 101-750B-1]]
|eng1 type=[[turboshaft]]
|eng1 kw=442<!-- prop engines -->
|eng1 hp=<!-- prop engines -->
|eng1 shp=<!-- prop engines -->
|eng1 kn=<!-- jet/rocket engines -->
|eng1 lbf=<!-- jet/rocket engines -->
|eng1 note=
|power original=
|thrust original=
|eng1 kn-ab=<!-- afterburners -->
|eng1 lbf-ab=<!-- afterburners -->
|rot number=1<!-- helicopters -->
|rot dia m=11.00<!-- helicopters -->
|rot dia ft=<!-- helicopters -->
|rot dia in=<!-- helicopters -->
|rot area sqm=95.03<!-- helicopters -->
|rot area sqft=<!-- helicopters -->
|rot area note=
<!--
        Performance
-->
|perfhide=
|max speed kmh=250
|max speed mph=
|max speed kts=
|max speed note=at sea level
|max speed mach=<!-- supersonic aircraft -->
|cruise speed kmh=
|cruise speed mph=
|cruise speed kts=
|cruise speed note=
|stall speed kmh=<!-- aerobatic -->
|stall speed mph=<!-- aerobatic -->
|stall speed kts=
|stall speed note=
|never exceed speed kmh=278
|never exceed speed mph=
|never exceed speed kts=
|never exceed speed note=
|minimum control speed kmh=
|minimum control speed mph=
|minimum control speed kts=
|minimum control speed note=
|range km=541
|range miles=
|range nmi=
|range note=
|ferry range km=
|ferry range miles=
|ferry range nmi=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling m=4575
|ceiling ft=
|ceiling note=(max certified altitude)
*'''Hover Ceiling:''' 3,565 m (11,700 ft) (in ground effect)
|g limits=<!-- aerobatic -->
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|glide ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|climb rate ms=
|climb rate ftmin=2165
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|sink rate ms=<!-- sailplanes -->
|sink rate ftmin=<!-- sailplanes -->
|sink rate note=
|lift to drag=
|wing loading kg/m2=
|wing loading lb/sqft=
|wing loading note=
|disk loading kg/m2=
|disk loading lb/sqft=
|disk loading note=
|fuel consumption kg/km=
|fuel consumption lb/mi=
|power/mass=
|thrust/weight=
|more performance=
<!--
        Armament
-->
|avionics=
}}

==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|related=
* [[MBB Bo 105]]
* [[Eurocopter EC135]]
* [[Eurocopter EC145]]
|similar=
* [[UH-1 Iroquois]]
* [[HAL Dhruv]]
* [[HAL Rudra]]
* [[AgustaWestland AW169]]
* [[Bell 429]]
* [[Ka-60]]
|lists=
|see also=
* [[Helicopter]]
* [[Air ambulance]]
}}

==References==

===Citations===
{{Reflist}}

===Bibliography===

* "BK 117...a Terrestrial Space Ship". ''[[Air International]]'', Vol 36 No 4, April 1989. Bromley, UK:Fine Scroll. {{ISSN|0306-5634}}. pp.&nbsp;163–170.
* Eriksson, Sören. "Clusters and Economic Growth in Asia." ''Edward Elgar Publishing, 2013. {{ISBN|0-85793-009-5}}.
* Hatch, Paul. [http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1990/1990%20-%203627.html "World's Air Forces"]. ''[[Flight International]]'', 5–11 December 1990. pp.&nbsp;35–81.
* Hoyle, Craig. "World Air Forces Directory". ''[[Flight International]]'', Vol. 182, No. 5370, 11–17 December 2012. pp.&nbsp;40–64. {{ISSN|0015-3710}}.
* Lambert, Mark. ''Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1993–94''. Coulsdon, UK:Jane's Data Division, 1993. {{ISBN|0-7106-1066-1}}.
* McCellan, J. Mac. [https://books.google.com/books?id=9ZOVaJzKFDAC&pg=PA66 "Paramedic."] ''[[Flying (magazine)|Flying]]'', February 1986. Vol. 113, No. 2. pp.&nbsp;62–67. {{ISSN|0015-4806}}.
* Mlandenov, Alexander. "Russia's Responders". ''Air International'', Vol. 91, No. 6, December 2016. pp.&nbsp;78–87. {{ISSN|0306-5634}}.
* Prétat, Samuel. [http://www.editions-minimonde76.com/en/pages/aviation/ec-145-uh-72.html "EC 145 & UH-72."] ''Éditions Minimonde76'', 2015. {{ISBN|9-782954-18181-3}}. {{in lang|fr}}
* Scharenborg, Martin. "Fighting the fires". ''Air International'', Vol. 103 No. 2, September 2022. pp.&nbsp;68–72. {{ISSN|0306-5634}}.

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20040218130914/http://www.eurocopter.com/site/FO/scripts/siteFO_contenu.php?lang=EN&noeu_id=40 Manufacturer's website]
* [http://www.rth.info/typen/typen.php?show=bk117 BK 117 in aeromedical services]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20171117064744/https://www.khi.co.jp/scope/pdf_e/scope106_02.pdf BK 117 factsheet]

{{MBB aircraft}}
{{Kawasaki aircraft}}
{{Eurocopter}}
{{Indonesian Aerospace aircraft}}
{{CF aircraft}}
{{Spanish helicopters}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mbb Kawasaki Bk 117}}
[[Category:Airbus Helicopters aircraft|BK 117, MBB Kawasaki]]
[[Category:1970s German helicopters]]
[[Category:1970s international civil utility aircraft]]
[[Category:Kawasaki aircraft|BK 117, MBB Kawasaki]]
[[Category:Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm aircraft|BK 117, MBB Kawasaki]]
[[Category:1970s Japanese helicopters]]
[[Category:Twin-turbine helicopters]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1979]]
[[Category:Germany–Japan relations]]