Avincis orders 30 helicopters to support HEMS, SAR, and offshore operations
The aircraft will support a new Swedish HEMS contract and form part of the operator’s long-term fleet modernization strategy
Avincis has ordered 30 additional helicopters from Airbus and Leonardo as the aerial emergency services provider seeks to support fleet modernization, contract growth, and expansion into new markets.
The order comprises 15 Airbus H145 helicopters and 15 Leonardo aircraft, including five AW139s and 10 AW169s. Deliveries are scheduled between 2028 and 2031.
The aircraft will be deployed across a range of operations, including helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS), search and rescue (SAR), medevac, and offshore energy support missions.
Part of the order has already been earmarked for a new Swedish HEMS contract awarded to Avincis by Region Uppsala and Västra Götalandsregionen.
Three AW169 helicopters will support the agreement, which is understood to be the largest HEMS contract awarded in Sweden by value and the first joint procurement between the two regions.
Under the contract, which could run for up to 10 years, each region will receive a dedicated helicopter, while a third aircraft will be retained as a shared backup to support operational continuity.
John Boag, Group CEO of Avincis, said the company viewed the order as an investment in the future of the emergency aerial services sector. “This significant order represents the confidence we have in the potential of the emergency aerial services market and will support our pipeline of growth going forward,” he commented.
The H145 is widely used by HEMS operators because of its compact footprint and operational flexibility, while the larger AW169 and AW139 platforms offer increased cabin capacity and payload capability for critical care transport, SAR, and offshore missions.
Avincis is one of the largest users of Leonardo civil helicopters in Europe and operates a mixed fleet that includes H145s, H135s, AW139s, AW169s, and Super Puma helicopters.
The operator said its latest acquisition would support fleet renewal and provide additional capacity as demand for emergency aviation services continued to evolve.
Last month, Avincis also took delivery of a new Airbus H145 D3 helicopter for air rescue operations in South Tyrol, Italy, the first of three aircraft due to enter service under its renewed contract with HELI – South Tyrol Air Rescue ODV.