Kaman K.1200 K-Max (c/n A94-0026)
Helog (Helicopter Services GmbH)
Altenrhein (ACH/LSZR)
19 August 2003
The Kaman K.1200 K-Max is a medium-lift helicopter designed for external cargo load operations, able to lift over 2,700 kg of load. The K-Max is known for its intermeshing rotors (synchropter design), which provide greater efficiency compared to conventional rotor technology and do not require a tail rotor. Due to this it says on the rotor shaft "only approach from the front" as the rotor would easily chop off your head at the rear end.
This particular K-Max was built in 1999 for Heli Air Zagel as D-HFZA (2), after K-Max D-HFZA (1) was damaged beyond repair during a logging operation in Tyrol, Austria, that same year. By 2003 it was operated by German company Helog (Helicopter Services), still as D-HFZA. As such it was seen firing up its Honeywell T53-17 turboshaft engine, later departing Altenrhein after a short stay.
In 2005 the K-Max was acquired as HB-ZGK by Balzers, Liechtenstein-based Rotex Helicopter, and at this time is still current with them.