The Bulgarian Government recently announced the opening of a tender for the rental of two helicopters, and their respective crews, to operate the Hems (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) emergency medical transport service. The value of the tender is equal to 14.5 million Euros.

"Helipads for air ambulances will be built in most of Bulgaria's cities. Emergency medical services will be free of charge for Bulgarian citizens", explained the national Transport minister, Hristo Aleksiev, after the notice circulated in the public procurement register. 

The deadline for submitting offers will expire on 4 May 2023. The aircraft are expected to complete at least 500 flight hours annually. The service is entrusted for a period of two years, with the possibility of extension for another 12 months. The medical transports will initially be operated from two bases made available by the State, each of which will have its own helicopter and qualified crew, including ground workers.