CH-149 Cormorant

Aircraft

CH-149 Cormorant

Overview

Overview

The CH-149 Cormorant is dedicated to search and rescue (SAR). It can operate in some of the most severe conditions, making it ideal for Canada’s challenging geography and climate. The Cormorant has been used to help Royal Canadian Air Force Search and Rescue Technicians rescue injured mountain climbers, lost hikers and ship’s’ crews in distress, among other challenging rescues.

Powered by three engines, the CH-149 Cormorant has exceptional long-range capability. It can fly for over 1000 km without refuelling. With its ample cargo space and rear-ramp access, the helicopter can carry up to 12 stretchers or a load of 5000kg.

Its shaped rotor blades are strengthened by titanium strips along the leading edge. This design gives the CH-149 superior lift and speed, and significantly less vibration than many other helicopters. The Cormorant can also start and stop its rotors in very windy conditions reaching over 50 knots. Its advanced systems help to provide a stable hover for critical hoisting operations.

Equipped with a full ice protection system, the Cormorant routinely conducts rescues that would have been impossible for its predecessor, the CH-113 Labrador.

Technical Specifications

Technical Specifications

Aircraft Description

The CH-149 Cormorant is a fully certified off-the-shelf civilian utility helicopter. Modified from the military specifications of the European EH-101 medium-lift military transport helicopter, the CH-149 includes search-and-rescue-specific equipment and physical characteristics and performance requirements to meet Canada’s SAR responsibilities.

Modifications include:

  • a rear-fuselage ramp
  • a single rescue door with both hoists on one side

Length

 22.8m

Rotor span

18.5m

Height

6.5 m

Maximum Gross Weight

14,600 kg

Power

Three General Electric T700-T6A1 Turbines

Speed

278 km/h

Range

1,018 km

Equipment

Two 273 kg rescue hoists, 4,536 kg cargo hook with frame, storage racks for SAR equipment and 12 stretchers.

Year(s) procured

2001 to 2003

Quantity in CF

14

Location(s)

9 Wing Gander, NL
14 Wing Greenwood, NS
19 Wing Comox, BC

 

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