Eurocopter Cleared to Make EC145s in U.S.

American Eurocopter has received FAA production authority for the EC145 and its UH-72A Lakota derivative, clearing the way for the company to manufacture both aircraft in the United States. The Lakota is the new U.S. Army light utility helicopter that will supplement the Sikorsky Aircraft UH-60 Black Hawk fleet on non-combat missions. The Air Ambulance Detachment at Fort Irwin, Calif. was the first Army unit to receive the Lakota. The EC145 is increasingly used by customers in the medical airlift industry as well as law enforcement. The Army wants 322 Lakotas to be delivered in the next 10 years. American Eurocopter has expanded its production facility in Columbus, Miss. to meet the Army's demand. For related news