DRF Luftrettung to showcase at European Rotors helicopter trade show

DRF Luftrettung will take part in European Rotors in Cologne from 8 to 10 November, focusing on topics such as helicopter maintenance and type ratings for pilots and hoist rescue – alongside driving progress and implementing air rescue innovation.

Michael Wrobel, Sales Manager at DRF Luftrettung, said: “One example in the area of technology is the service bulletin retrofit to upgrade the BK117 D2 to the D3 (five-bladed H145), which DRF Luftrettung carries out in its own EASA Part-145 organisation.

“We have already performed five successful upgrades to the new five-bladed rotor system for our own H145 fleet since the start of 2021 – and now offer this service to external customers too. Having been the first operator to develop the processes for the retrofit with Airbus Helicopters last year, we are one of the few providers to possess this.” This topic will be covered in the Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul conference session on 9 November.

DRF Luftrettung is also partaking in is the HEMS conference session, discussing innovations in flight operation, technology and medicine.

Another core competency will come under the microscope: hoist rescues, with an H145 with five-bladed rotor and hoist at its stand. DRF Luftrettung can deploy a helicopter with hoist at nine HEMS bases. Pilots and trainers will talk about the challenges of hoist operation and explain how customers can benefit from their skills.

Dr Krystian Pracz, Chairperson of the DRF Luftrettung Executive Board, is relishing this year’s event: “We are one of the largest air rescue organisations in Europe. The various EASA approvals and certifications mean that we offer a broad range of services, which we have expanded even further in recent years – for example, within our maintenance, training and design organization.”

DRF Luftrettung celebrated its 50th birthday last month.