News
Airbus to deliver New Zealand’s first HEMS-configured H145s
November 15, 2018 By Helicopters Staff
The Helicopter Emergency Medical Services New Zealand Limited has selected Airbus’ H145 to enhance its helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) industry.
In New Zealand alone Due to be delivered in the second half of 2019, two helicopters will become the first HEMS-configured H145s to enter New Zealand to provide air ambulance services in the nation’s south region.
The two helicopters will be operated on the South Island by the consortium formed by Helicopters Otago (Dunedin) and GCH Aviation (Christchurch). The 4-tonne-class twin engine H145, equipped with the Helionix avionics suite and 4-axis autopilot system, will join will an existing fleet of the BK117 and EC145 helicopters.
“Airbus has a strong history in New Zealand, with our rotorcraft playing an important part in connecting Kiwis across the country for more than 30 years,” said Philippe Monteux, head of Southeast Asia and Pacific of Airbus Helicopters.
The H145 is the market leader for emergency medical services and rescue missions, thanks to its exceptional HEMS heritage and safety record with its BK117 and EC145 predecessors. Its popularity is attributed to its high performance and spacious cabin, agility and ability to quickly convert from an air ambulance to other roles such as disaster relief or mountain rescue.
With a global fleet of more than 1,400 helicopters of the H145 family, the fleet has accumulated more than five million flight hours. In New Zealand alone, there are currently 41 H145 family of helicopters deployed for aeromedical, search-and-rescue, utility and business aviation purposes.
