Dallas, US. Air Methods, the leading air medical provider in the U.S., is expanding its fleet with the addition of new Airbus helicopters. The agreement includes the acquisition of H140 helicopters, as well as 10 H125s and 11 H135s, to support air medical missions across the country.
“We are excited to initiate our fleet expansion efforts with Airbus helicopters,” said Air Methods CEO Rob Hamilton. “This Global Fleet Agreement not only enhances our ability to support our customers with cutting-edge aircraft but also strategically positions Air Methods for sustained growth and innovation in the decade ahead.”
As the largest civil operator of Airbus helicopters worldwide, Air Methods operates a vast fleet of Airbus models, including the H125, H130, H135 and H145.
“This announcement marks a major milestone in the longstanding relationship between Airbus and Air Methods, providing our team with new opportunities to support the life-saving missions Air Methods performs each day,” said Bart Reijnen, President of Airbus Helicopters in the U.S. and Head of the North America region. “This agreement for new aircraft is a testament to the excellent performance, safety and reliability that Airbus helicopters provide.”
The H140 raises the bar, in the light twin-engined category, for performance, cost-effectiveness, and passenger and crew comfort. It is a 3-tonne class rotorcraft that complements Airbus Helicopters’ current light twin offering for the emergency medical services, passenger transport, and private and business aviation markets. The entry into service of the helicopter is planned in 2028 for the emergency medical services segment.
The H140 features a wide range of innovations, including a new T-shaped tail boom with an optimised Fenestron that reduces sound levels, a five-blade bearingless main rotor, and new powerful Safran engines. The helicopter also features a larger cabin space, large windows and optimized cabin layout that can accommodate up to six passengers comfortably. Designed with accessibility in mind, thanks to the large clamshell doors and the high tail boom, the H140’s rear loading capabilities allow the use of different types of stretcher systems including intensive care ones and transport incubators while its large sliding doors facilitate access to the cabin.
The Airbus H135, the world-wide fleet leader for HEMS missions, is recognized as an excellent asset for the air medical transport industry. The lightweight rotorcraft offers the highest safety levels in its class, contributing to its position as the worldwide fleet leader in emergency medical services. The H135 features a spacious cabin that allows providers to directly access a patient in the event of an emergency. On top, its high reliability and availability rates make the H135 the helicopter of choice for HEMS missions.
As one of the market leaders for single-engine helicopters performing HEMS missions, the H125 is recognized around the world for offering outstanding performance and reliability.
