This archive report was first published on 29 October 2019.
Deputy President William Ruto's love for luxury air travel is no secret. He has been spotted in several high-end helicopters, which he has consistently denied owning, but his frequent use of them is undeniable.
One of the most common helicopters associated with Ruto is the Airbus H145, registration number 5Y DSC, which he has used to travel to various locations, including Baringo, Teso, and Kisii.
According to Aerospace Technology, the H145 is a twin-engine multipurpose aircraft manufactured by Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopters). The website reports that a used Airbus H145 costs around Sh730 million, while a new one would set you back Sh1 billion, with an average maintenance cost of Sh52 million per year.
The H145 is equipped with the Helionix Avionics System, which significantly reduces the pilot's workload and enables the helicopter to fly and land even after experiencing a screen display failure.
With a flying range of close to 500km in a single flight, the H145 can fly at a top speed of 284 km/h and has a maximum take-off range of 680km above sea level. The chopper's cockpit is also Night Vision Goggle (NVG) compatible, allowing it to operate effectively both at night and during the day.
The H145 has the option to accommodate one pilot and ten passengers, or two pilots and nine passengers at any one time. Its versatility makes it suitable for various purposes, including air rescue services, law enforcement, private use, and civil missions.
