Air Methods, one of the reference air medical provider in the USA, is expanding its fleet with the addition of new Airbus helicopters. The agreement includes the acquisition of H-140 aircraft, as well as 10 H-125s and 11 H-135s, to support air medical missions across the country.

As one of the largest civil operators of Airbus helicopters worldwide, Air Methods operates a vast fleet of models, including the H-125, H-130, H-135 and H-145.

The H-140 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 industy's current light twin offering for the emergency medical services, passenger transport, and private and business aviation markets. Its entry into service is planned in 2028 for the emergency medical services segment.

The H-135, the world-wide fleet reference for HEMS missions, is recognized as an asset for the air medical transport industry. It features a spacious cabin that allows providers to directly access a patient in the event of an emergency. On top, its high availability rates make it the helicopter of choice for HEMS missions.

Metro Aviation and Airbus Helicopters have signed an agreement for up to 36 H-140 helicopters in the emergency medical services (EMS) sector. It is one of the launch customers for the new aircraft that was unveiled at the vertical lift industry show "VERTICON" in Dallas, Texas (March 10-13).

An air medical operator based in Shreveport, Louisiana, has ordered 12 units, with options for 24 additional ones.

The H-140 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, its 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 operator manages air medical helicopters and airplanes for healthcare providers and is a global refernce for multi-mission helicopter customizations.

See for details AVIONEWS.