News
Eurocopter, Avincis sign global framework agreement
March 8, 2013 By Carey Fredericks
March 8, 2013, Las Vegas, Nv. - Avincis Group and Eurocopter today announced a global framework agreement that includes the acquisition of 10 new EC145 T2 helicopters for emergency medical service (EMS) work.
Announced at the Heli-Expo industry trade show in Las Vegas, the agreement covers aftermarket support and training, as well as the purchase of aircraft for use by its operating companies across the world.
Perfectly suited for the most demanding mission requirements, the EC145 T2 is the newest 4-ton-category twin-engine helicopter in Eurocopter’s product range. Three of these latest additions to Avincis’ 350-strong fleet will be used to deliver life-saving EMS missions services in the U.K., with the rest being destined for use in Western Europe. The initial aircraft will be delivered in the first half of 2014.
Avincis Group CEO James Drummond said: “As a mission-critical services business, Avincis needs to ensure we have the right fleet to enable us to react quickly, handle any emergency and go wherever our customers need us – always ready, always there. We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with Eurocopter, who are an important partner in our future growth.”
Lutz Bertling, the President & CEO of Eurocopter, added: “This agreement marks the latest step in a four-decade relationship with the Avincis Group. As a result, the EC145 T2’s operational capabilities will be available to an even broader segment of the global EMS community.”
The EC145 T2 is an evolved version of Eurocopter’s popular twin-engine EC145, incorporating new Arriel 2E engines, along with the company’s Fenestron shrouded tail rotor, upgraded main and tail rotor gear boxes, an innovative new digital avionics suite and a 4-axis autopilot.
