English Air Services, a Part 133, 135 and 137 operator based in Santa Maria, California and specialising in utility operations for agriculture, LIDAR/mapping platforms and power line maintenance, has taken delivery of a refurbished Bell 206L3 helicopter from Meridian Helicopters, headquartered in Broussard, Louisiana. This marks the 18th completed and delivered Bell 206L3 and 206L4 aircraft refurbishment in recent years from Meridian.

“When looking for an aircraft to purchase, we look for quality craftsmanship and a company that takes pride in its work,” states Mark English, president, English Air Services. “Meridian exceeded that. Looking for this specific aircraft took some time; we found some for less money, but there was no comparison in the work that was put into this 1990 Bell 206L3. The team at Meridian were so easy to deal with. We highly recommend Meridian for any helicopter purchase.”

“Our goal with this aircraft was a multi-mission capable turnkey solution,” adds Michael Bashlor, managing partner at Meridian. “Once completed, the aircraft measured in at approximately 90 per cent component and engine time remaining, and it simply looked and performed great.”

The 1990 Bell 206L3 was equipped for basic utility operations with attention paid to cosmetics and avionics, giving the aircraft a corporate appeal. A complete Garmin avionics package with Bluetooth technology, air conditioning and three-tone leather seating complimented the interior specifications, in addition to other modifications. A modern paint scheme was added with wire strike protection, cargo hook provisions and an inlet barrier filter system.