Rotex Helicopter of Balzers, Liechtenstein, has ordered a K-MAX rotorcraft from Kaman Aerospace, a division of Kaman Corporation. This brings the total number of firm orders since the relaunch of production to 12 aircraft. Rotex currently operates multiple K-MAX aircraft focused on aerial construction and logging. Delivery is expected in the fourth quarter of 2019.

“We have been a K-MAX operator for more than 22 years and have flown over 45,000 flight hours. A new production K-MAX will add to our proven aerial lift operations while providing our customers with a highly reliable low cost solution,” states Rotex owner Urs Riebli.

VP and GM of Kaman Air Vehicles Division Darlene Smith adds: “We are thrilled that Rotex has selected a new K-MAX to add to its fleet and we look forward to continuing our relationship with a long-term customer who values the unique capabilities of the aircraft. The reputation of the K-MAX as a highly versatile and capable aircraft is translating into the increased level of interest we are seeing from operators around the globe. Our order book is filling in nicely and we look forward to increasing sales for many years to come.”

Development of the K-MAX was led by Kaman founder and former CEO, aviation pioneer Charlie H Kaman, and it received FAA certification in 1994. The model is a rugged low maintenance aircraft that features a counter-rotating rotor system and is optimised for external load operations and designed specifically for vertical reference flight. The aircraft can lift up to 6,000 lbs.