French EMS service receives three new helicopters

The three aircraft will be based in Grenoble, Valence, and Montpellier. They will complement the three H145s already ordered by SAF in 2018 and 2020, the first of which was delivered recently and will be deployed for EMS missions in Belgium.

SAF CEO, Tristan Serretta, commented: “Introducing six new H145s in France and Belgium within twelve months is in line with our strategy to increase the capacity of the growing number of EMS services that place their trust in us.”

Increasing capabilities for EMS missions

Airbus Helicopters CEO, Bruno Even, added: “We are delighted that SAF has once again renewed its trust in Airbus Helicopters. This new contract highlights the lasting partnership between our two companies that has spanned more than two decades.”

SAF is a key actor of EMS in France and Europe. The French company already operates 55 Airbus helicopters. SAF’s fleet includes a Super Puma, H135s and H125s. The H145 will bring increased capabilities for EMS missions.

The new version of Airbus H145 light twin-engine helicopter was unveiled at Heli-Expo 2019 in Atlanta. This latest upgrade adds a new five-bladed rotor to the multi-mission H145, increasing the useful load of the helicopter by 150 kg. The helicopter’s high-mounted tail boom and wide opening clam-shell doors facilitate access to the H145’s spacious cabin.

Meanwhile, Airbus recently handed over the seventh and last H145 for the search and rescue service of the Bundeswehr to the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support in Germany.