Air Rescue Service DRF Luftrettung places order for 10 additional H145 helicopters
In a significant partnership announcement, DRF Luftrettung, a leading provider of emergency medical services, has ordered up to ten new Airbus H145 helicopters. This latest version of the H145 comes equipped with several key upgrades, making it a perfect fit for the demanding nature of emergency medical services.
The new H145 features an innovative five-bladed main rotor system, which increases the useful load capacity by 150 kg and improves ride comfort for crew and passengers. The twin Safran Arriel 2E engines, coupled with a full authority digital engine control (FADEC), provide more power, better fuel efficiency, and lower emissions.
The modern Helionix avionics suite, featuring a 4-axis autopilot, reduces pilot workload and enhances situational awareness. This combination of technological advancements and operational benefits enhances safety, efficiency, and mission capability for operators like DRF Luftrettung.
The H145's particular low acoustic footprint and the lowest CO2 emissions amongst its competitors in its class make it an environmentally friendly choice. The simplicity of the new bearingless main rotor design eases maintenance operations, further contributing to its appeal.
Thomas Hein, Head of Europe Region at Airbus Helicopters, expressed gratitude for DRF Luftrettung's continued trust in their helicopters. He stated, "The H145 has become the backbone of DRF Luftrettung's fleet over the last decade."
DRF Luftrettung operates more than 50 Airbus H135 and H145 helicopters at 40 bases throughout Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. They are deployed for emergency rescue, intensive care transport, special missions, hoist operations, and day and night operations.
Dr. Krystian Pracz, CEO of DRF Luftrettung, stated that the new order continues to ensure optimal service for patients. The ordered helicopters will be covered by DRF's fleet-wide HCare Smart contract, which provides comprehensive parts-by-the-hour support.
In summary, the key features and benefits of the new H145 version include:
- Five-bladed bearingless main rotor for increased payload (+150 kg), better ride smoothness, and reduced maintenance complexity.
- Twin Safran Arriel 2E engines with FADEC for improved performance, fuel efficiency, and lower emissions.
- Advanced Helionix avionics with digital cockpit displays and four-axis autopilot for improved pilot situational awareness and reduced workload.
- Low noise footprint and environmental friendliness.
- Proven versatility across various mission types including medical evacuation, law enforcement, and utilities.
This latest H145 version, with its technological advancements and operational benefits, is set to further strengthen the partnership between DRF Luftrettung and Airbus Helicopters, ensuring optimal service for patients and enhancing the safety and efficiency of emergency medical services.
- The technological advancements in the new H145, including the five-bladed main rotor, twin Safran Arriel 2E engines, and Helionix avionics, not only improve its performance and fuel efficiency but also make it a suitable choice for the finance and aerospace industry.
- The partnership between DRF Luftrettung and Airbus Helicopters, evident in the new order for up to ten H145 helicopters, exemplifies the collaboration between the technology and finance sectors, aiming to provide optimal service for patients and enhance the industry standard in emergency medical services.
