DRF Luftrettung introduces H145 with five-blade rotor as Christoph Europa 5

The helicopter began flying on 20 March

German-HEMS operator DRF Luftrettung has announced the launch of its new five-blade rotor H145 helicopter in Niebüll, named the Christoph Europa 5.

The helicopter features the latest technology currently available in rescue services and, since 20 March, it has been deployed multiple times – on the first day, the crew was on duty six times with Christoph Europa 5.

“We have heard so many positive things from the stations that are already flying with a five-blade machine that we are very pleased because the advantages of this model will help us especially in summer,” said Jürgen Voiss, Pilot for DRF Luftrettung in Niebüll. “And already after the first day I can say this helicopter is just great!”

In addition to being able to transport higher payloads, the fifth rotor blade makes the H145 quieter in the air, benefitting patients and crew.

With the commissioning of this modern rescue helicopter, DRF Luftrettung is consistently pursuing its goal of advancing the development of air rescue. “The H145 with five-blade rotor is not only less vibrating, the larger payload capacity also means that we can take in more fuel with this helicopter, which increases the range,” added Voss.

Dr Krystian Pracz, CEO of DRF Luftrettung, explained the background to the ongoing modernization of the fleet: “The commissioning of the new H145 with five-blade rotor represents a milestone in air rescue in German-country, and we are very proud of this.

“We made the decision to deploy the system as soon as it is available and to be the first to go down this path. Because it is part of our self-image to promote the further development of air rescue,” he said.

“We always have one goal in mind: to further improve the care of our patients in all areas relevant to air rescue – people, medicine and technology,” concluded Pracz.