MBB (Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm) / Kawasaki BK 117

19 Apr 2026 · © Siliconserver

A historic MBB/Kawasaki BK 117 rescue helicopter in DRF livery, as exhibited in a German museum — iconic for its service in air medical operations.

2 likes 1 comments

Comments (1)

Kiwi Aviation · 20 Apr 2026

Love the livery!

More like this

Aircraft

BK 117 BK117

Deutsche Rettungsflugwacht (German Air Rescue) - Emergency Medical Service

DRF 4

Registration

Airline

N/A

Deutsche Rettungsflugwacht (DRF, German Air Rescue)

N/A (DRF is a specialized operator, not a standard airline) / N/A

Manufacturer

MBB (Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm) / Kawasaki

Gear

Sony Alpha 6000 Sony SEL55210 - 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3

Achievements

Heli Hero, Rare Bird, Vintage Voyager, Boeing Beginner

4 badges earned

Insights

Aviation History

The BK117 was a pioneering twin-engine EMS and utility helicopter widely used in medical, police, and rescue services across Europe and Asia.

Fleet Rarity

The BK 117 is not extremely rare, but older MBB-built examples are becoming less common due to newer models (such as the EC145).

Record Flights

BK117s have performed notable long-distance air medical evacuation missions and rescues in tough environments.

Safety & Events

Notable for its extensive service in European HEMS missions. Generally good safety record; some incidents related to operational environment.

Future Outlook

Many units are being retired, replaced with H145/EC145; some BK117s remain in limited service or are preserved in museums.

Specifications

2 × Honeywell LTS101-750B-1 turboshafts

Engine

11.00 m (rotor diameter)

Wingspan

13.00 m

Length

540 km

Range

241 km/h

Speed

Up to 11 passengers, typically medical crew and patients

Capacity

3,350 kg

MTOW

3.96 m

Height

Each engine: 700 shp (522 kW)

Thrust

Not specifically rated, but typically ICAO Chapter 6 for EMS helicopters

Noise