STARS celebrates legacy of the BK117 helicopter with donation to The Hangar Flight Museum

CALGARY, Nov. 3, 2025 – STARS is proud to donate one of its retired Airbus BK117 helicopters to The Hangar Flight Museum, where it will become part of the museum’s permanent collection. The helicopter is now available for the public to view anytime the museum is open, providing an opportunity to learn more about STARS and aviation history.

This special moment celebrates a pivotal chapter in Alberta’s aviation and healthcare history, honouring the legacy of a helicopter that, for decades, played a vital role in STARS’ life-saving missions. The BK117 will now be preserved as a lasting symbol of the care and commitment it represented.

“The BK117, was the aircraft that started it all for STARS—it was a beloved, reliable workhorse for us,” said Dr. John Froh, president and CEO, STARS. “While STARS has come a long way since our BKs first took flight in 1985, our mission has remained the same: to provide critical care anywhere. The BK117 allowed us to do that. We are proud to be able to donate this piece of history in our 40th year.”

“We are honoured to welcome the STARS BK117 helicopter into our collection,” says Brian Desjardins, Executive Director, The Hangar Flight Museum. “The BK117 was perfectly suited for emergency medical services and is an essential part of Western Canada’s healthcare and aviation history. Its addition to our museum celebrates the BK117’s legacy, and preserves a powerful symbol of innovation, service and lifesaving impact. It will inspire future generations to explore the diversity of careers in aviation.”

As STARS celebrates 40 years of life-saving missions, this historic aircraft stands as a symbol of the remarkable contributions made by the community, for the community. A fundraising campaign invited donors to become part of the BK117’s story through a unique opportunity to have their names permanently displayed on one of STARS’ iconic red helicopters. All funds raised support STARS’ mission-critical operations. Donors’ names and/or logos are now proudly displayed on the BK117, recognizing their role in preserving this symbol of STARS’ life-saving service.

The campaign saw more than 100 donors contribute, raising more than $900,000.

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For more information contact:

Janice Rendflesh, STARS | mediainfo@stars.ca | 1-866-966-8277
Brian Desjardins, The Hangar Flight Museum | 403-250-3752 (ext. 106)

About STARS
STARS was born from the conviction that no one should go without the care that could save their life. Operating 24/7 from bases in Calgary, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, Saskatoon, Regina and Winnipeg, STARS is your best hope in a worst-case scenario. If you need critical care, our mission is to be there for you—physically or virtually—in whatever capacity we can help. Because when it comes to the next patient who needs us, it’s never too far. Learn more at stars.ca

About The Hangar Flight Museum
The Hangar Flight Museum will be a premier destination to explore, engage, and experience the transformational power of flight. 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of this staple Calgary museum, and the work they do protecting artifacts and keeping the aviation heritage of Western Canada alive. To learn more about their exhibits, educational programs, and upcoming events, including their 50th anniversary celebrations visit thehangarmuseum.ca