The UH-72A Lakota is a twin-engine light utility helicopter, a militarized version of the Eurocopter EC145. Airbus Helicopters, Inc. (formerly Eurocopter), has been manufacturing the Lakota since it was selected in 2006 for the U.S. Army’s Light Utility Helicopter program. Deliveries began in 2006, and by 2020, hundreds of units were in service with the U.S. Army, Army National Guard, and U.S. Navy. The helicopter fleet has accumulated over 1.6 million flight hours, supporting missions ranging from medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) and general support to personnel recovery.
Airbus Helicopters, Inc. was founded in 1969 and opened its Columbus, Mississippi facility in 2004, which became the manufacturing home for the UH-72A Lakota in 2006. The parent company, Airbus Helicopters SAS, was formed in 1992 as Eurocopter SA.
A range of platforms and access solutions are utilized for maintenance on the UH-72A Lakota. The Reach Deck Platform, Modular Stepover Platforms, and Super Trestle Scaffold offer access for overall maintenance, including general access to the fuselage. A Super Service Stand and Easyraise facilitate work on the landing gear (NLG and MLG) and the lower sections of the forward and middle fuselage, such as cargo/baggage areas and wheel well access.
The Cantilever Platform, Bridge Deck, and A Frame Aviation Platform allow maintenance personnel to reach the Wing & Engine Pylon sections, addressing needs related to the engine inlet/exhaust, fan, compressor, and hydraulics. The Platform Ladder Warthog and Branach Fibreglass Platform are useful for reaching various sections, including the nose (windshield & cockpit, antennas) and the tail section components like the vertical and horizontal stabilizers. Aviation Chock and Cone Trolley help secure the aircraft during these detailed maintenance operations.
