German emergency services organization DRF Luftrettung and aircraft manufacturer Airbus have agreed in principle to a deal for the sale of 10 H140 helicopters.
In a significant move towards enhancing emergency medical services, DRF Luftrettung has agreed to be one of the launch customers for the new Airbus H140 helicopter. The announcement was made at the VERTICON2025 vertical lift industry show in Dallas, Texas.
The H140, a 3-tonne class rotorcraft, is designed with safety, efficiency, and technology at its core. Powered by Safran engines, it offers a modernized avionics suite and advanced automatic flight control systems, aiming to improve operational safety, efficiency, and pilot workload management.
One of the key features of the H140 is its large clamshell doors and high tail boom, which provide improved rear loading capabilities. This design allows the use of various stretcher systems and transport incubators, making it an ideal choice for emergency medical services. The H140's cabin, with large windows and an optimised layout, can comfortably accommodate up to six passengers.
Krystian Pracz, CEO of DRF Luftrettung, expressed his excitement about the new addition, stating that the H140 will help modernize their helicopter fleet and improve medical care for people in need. DRF Luftrettung has been in partnership with Airbus Helicopters for five decades, and this latest purchase underscores their continued trust in Airbus' innovative safety systems and operational excellence.
Dirk Petry, Head of H135 and H140 programmes at Airbus Helicopters, expressed his pride in supporting DRF Luftrettung with their helicopters and services as they perform critical missions to save lives 365 days a year. On March 12, 2025, DRF Luftrettung signed a Letter of Intent for the purchase of ten H140 helicopters.
The H140 is part of Airbus Helicopters’ broader fleet modernization program, alongside the versatile H160 and other models. This strategic move emphasizes versatility, safety, and technology leadership for both civilian and emergency medical services.
DRF Luftrettung, one of the biggest HEMS operators in Europe, carried out a total of 37,874 missions in 2024. With the addition of the H140, they aim to continue their life-saving work with even more advanced technology and capabilities. The entry into service of the H140 for the emergency medical services segment is planned in 2028.
In summary, the Airbus H140 stands out for its modern, safety-enhanced avionics and autopilot, efficient and reliable Safran powerplant, suitability for emergency medical and operational use requiring twin-engine safety, and its role in Airbus’ strategic fleet renewal and capability expansion in 2025.
The H140, a new addition to DRF Luftrettung's fleet, is not only designed for emergency medical services but also showcases advanced technology and Finnanancial efficiency, further emphasizing Airbus Helicopters' commitment to safety and industry leadership. Driven by the need for versatility and technological advancement, Airbus Helicopters' fleet modernization program also incorporates the H160 and other models, catering equally to civilian and aerospace sectors.
