Helicopter manufacturer Airbus and Metro Aviation sign deal for potential purchase of 36 H140 helicopters.
Metro Aviation Secures 36 H140 Helicopters for Emergency Medical Services
The H140 helicopter, unveiled at the vertical lift industry show VERTICON in Dallas, Texas, is a modern, light twin-engine helicopter purpose-built for emergency medical services (EMS). The agreement for up to 36 H140 helicopters between Metro Aviation and Airbus Helicopters signifies a significant step towards modernizing EMS fleets in the USA and Europe.
Key features of the H140 for EMS include a light twin-engine configuration, providing efficient performance and reliability for air medical missions. The H140 will be launched with a focus on EMS tasks, integrating medical equipment and cabin layout suited for patient care during flight.
The H140's versatility extends beyond EMS, with plans for law enforcement and firefighting versions, underscoring its flexibility for public service roles. The helicopter's advanced digital systems, supported by Airbus's recent fleet modernization efforts, are expected to enhance flight safety and mission adaptability.
Metro Aviation, a global leader for multi-mission helicopter customizations, operating air medical helicopters and airplanes for healthcare providers, is one of the launch customers for the new H140 helicopter. The H140's large clamshell doors and high tail boom enable the use of various stretcher systems and transport incubators, making it suitable for intensive care stretcher systems and transport incubators.
The H140 helicopter boasts a larger cabin space, accommodating up to six passengers comfortably. The cabin features large windows and an optimized layout, ensuring passenger and crew comfort during flights. The H140's large sliding doors facilitate easy access to the cabin.
The H140's main rotor is a five-blade bearingless design, and it is equipped with new powerful Safran engines. The new T-shaped tail boom with an optimized Fenestron reduces sound levels, making the H140 quieter than its predecessors.
The entry into service of the H140 helicopter for the EMS segment is planned in 2028, and it is expected to enhance Metro Aviation's operational capabilities. Bart Reijnen, President of Airbus Helicopters in the U.S. and Head of the North America Region, stated that they are proud to partner with Metro Aviation for the launch of the H140 helicopter.
[1] Metro Aviation press release, 2025. [2] Airbus Helicopters press release, 2025. [3] Aviation Today, 2025. [4] Verticon 2025 conference materials. [5] STAT MedEvac press release, 2025.
- In the union of modernizing EMS fleets, Metro Aviation's agreement for 36 H140 helicopters with Airbus Helicopters marks a significant stride in the industry, merging finance and technology for enhanced public services in aerospace.
- Beyond EMS, the versatile H140 helicopter, equipped with advanced digital systems, showcases its potential in law enforcement and firefighting, blending various sectors of the finance and technology landscape.
