First HEMS craft for India delivered
On 29 August, leaders from Air Medical Group Holdings and Aviators Air Rescue accepted delivery of the first of three H130 helicopters, which the companies plan to use to launch a single-engine HEMS operation in India.
On 29 August, leaders from Air Medical Group Holdings (AMGH) and Aviators Air Rescue accepted delivery of the first of three H130 helicopters, which the companies plan to use to launch a single-engine HEMS operation in India.
Based in Dallas, Texas, US, air medical transport and EMS provider AMGH has joined forces with Aviators Air Rescue to bring to India what they say will be the first economical HEMS programme utilising Airbus Helicopters aircraft.
AMGH and Aviators began preparations for the India operation earlier this year following the release of regulatory guidelines by the Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The regulations allow the use of single-engine, dual-pilot helicopters for HEMS. The new venture will primarily be run by Aviators management, with technical expertise and standards oversight provided by AMGH.
AMGH-Aviators placed an initial order for three EMS-equipped H130s, which are scheduled to launch the new Indian operation towards the end of this year. The aircraft are being completed by Airbus Helicopters Inc. in Grand Prairie.
“AMGH and Aviators are delighted that the Airbus Helicopters team responded to the challenge of quickly producing these specially-equipped H130 helicopters for service in India,” said AMGH CEO Fred Buttrell. “Our company has an outstanding track record of providing safe, high-quality air medical transport services and we will join with Aviators to bring life-saving service to the people of India.”
The Airbus Helicopters team will conduct pilot training in Grand Prairie and technician training in Marignane, France. Airbus Helicopters India will provide additional training, service, and support for the aircraft in the country. AMGH and Aviators have options to acquire additional Airbus Helicopters aircraft for their Indian operations.
“Aviators will provide the people of India with emergent, high-quality air medical services that will be affordable and accessible for everyone,” said Arun Sharma, managing director of Aviators Air Rescue. “We will provide the high level of service that AMGH is known for in the US.”
Aviators said it will offer EMS through state governments, rescue groups, hospitals, clinics, public and private companies, and to individuals through subscriptions. Aviators is also offering individual and family membership subscriptions.