Medical service provider Global Medical Response partners with Airbus for potential acquisition of 15 H140 helicopters.
In a significant move for the emergency medical services (EMS) sector in the United States, Global Medical Response (GMR) has partnered with Airbus Helicopters to incorporate the new H140 multi-mission light twin-engine helicopter into its fleet. The announcement was made at the vertical lift industry show VERTICON in Dallas, Texas, in March 2025.
The H140, designed to optimize emergency medical services, was unveiled as a game-changer in the light twin category. It promises excellent performance, cost-effectiveness, and unparalleled passenger and crew comfort—crucial factors for EMS operators like GMR.
One of the key features of the H140 is its versatility, making it a versatile platform capable of supporting various mission profiles. This flexibility increases operational utility for organizations such as GMR.
The H140 also boasts advanced technology and safety systems, typical of Airbus Helicopters’ modern rotorcraft. Although specific details were not disclosed, the helicopter is expected to incorporate the latest avionics and safety systems, contributing to mission reliability and safety.
Under the agreement, GMR has ordered 10 H140 helicopters, with options for five additional aircraft. This partnership positions GMR as a primary North American customer for the H140, marking a significant update to their EMS fleet with modern, capable aircraft.
Headquartered in Lewisville, Texas, GMR is one of the largest operators of Airbus helicopters in North America and a leader in the air medical industry, operating 380 air base locations under various brands. Ted Van Horne, Chief Operating Officer of GMR, expressed his excitement about the H140, stating that it will provide a better patient environment for critical acute care.
The H140's large sliding doors facilitate easy access to the cabin, while its rear loading capabilities allow the use of different types of stretcher systems, including intensive care ones and transport incubators. The helicopter's larger cabin space can comfortably accommodate up to six passengers.
Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, expressed his excitement about the partnership with GMR and the introduction of the H140 in the U.S. He emphasized Airbus’s commitment to the U.S. EMS market, with the H140 as a new flagship model enhancing capabilities in air medical response.
With the addition of more than 30 Airbus helicopters since 2021, GMR's fleet is now nearly 200 Airbus helicopters strong. The entry into service of the H140 is planned for 2028 for the emergency medical services segment. The H140 is a 3-tonne class rotorcraft that complements Airbus Helicopters' current light twin offering for the emergency medical services, passenger transport, and private and business aviation markets.
In conclusion, the partnership between Airbus Helicopters and GMR underscores a significant step forward in the U.S. EMS market. The H140, with its impressive features and versatility, is poised to revolutionize air medical response, offering improved patient care and operational efficiency.
The partnership between Airbus Helicopters and GMR is a significant move in the health-and-wellness industry, as the H140, a versatile light twin-engine helicopter, will aid GMR in their emergency medical services (EMS) operations. The H140's technology and safety systems, coupled with its financial investment from GMR, signify the aerospace industry's focus on EMS and medical-conditions management. Additionally, the H140's incorporation into GMR's fleet could potentially inspire other sectors within the industry to invest in similar advancements for the betterment of health-and-wellness services.
