The MBB BK 117 B-2 is a twin-engined medium utility–transport helicopter, jointly developed and manufactured by Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB) of Germany and Kawasaki Heavy Industries of Japan. The BK 117 program began with a joint development agreement in 1977, leading to the first flight in 1979 and introduction in 1982. The B-2 variant was introduced around 1993. The helicopter has seen widespread adoption globally for emergency medical services (EMS) and transport roles.
MESSERSCHMITT – BOLKOW – BLOHM (MBB) was a significant German aerospace company formed through a series of mergers in the late 1960s, combining Messerschmitt, Bölkow, and Blohm & Voss. MBB’s foundational products included the MBB Bo 105 and its larger derivative, the BK 117. MBB was acquired by Daimler-Benz in 1989 and eventually became part of Eurocopter, later rebranded as Airbus Helicopters.
A range of platforms and access solutions are utilized to support maintenance operations on the BK 117 B-2. Products such as the Reach Deck Platform, Modular Stepover Platforms, Ultraraise, Super Service Stand, Easyraise, and Cantilever Platform are indispensable for comprehensive access. These solutions support detailed servicing across all critical sections.
Maintenance platforms facilitate access to the Nose Section for radome, antenna, nose avionics, windshield, and bulkhead checks. For the Forward Fuselage, they allow access to the Main Entry Door, cargo/baggage areas, lighting systems, cabin access, and Environmental Control System (ECS). Access solutions also enable thorough work on the Landing Gear, including the Nose Landing Gear (NLG) and Main Landing Gear (MLG).
The platforms further support detailed inspection and service for the Middle Fuselage/Wing Box Area (including fuel tanks and cabin interior) and the AFT Fuselage (AFT bulkhead, cargo, and rear avionics). For the Tail Section (Empennage), they provide necessary elevation for servicing the vertical and horizontal stabilizers and the rudder. These access products are paramount for maintaining operational readiness.
