Norwegian Air Ambulance purchases H135
The Norwegian Air Ambulance (Norsk Luftambulanse AS) will be the first operator to purchase the technically improved H135.
Three helicopters have been ordered with the option for further helicopters in the future. The first delivery is planned for 2017.
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“With this additional step of evolving the helicopter’s avionic system on top of the increase in performance we´ve already achieved, we’re reinforcing the rotorcraft’s unique features such as unbeatable performance, efficiency and safety,” said Axel Humpert, Head of the H135 Programme at Airbus Helicopters. “The improved situational awareness of the pilots and the even bigger cabin flexibility will ensure the role of the H135 as the reference helicopter for EMS missions on the world market.”
Norsk Luftambulanse currently operate 13 helicopters of the EC135 P2+, one EC145 C2 and two H145, which are deployed in the challenging environment of the Norwegian mountains and also in Denmark.
“With its latest evolution, the H135 perfectly responds to our growing demands as far as performance, availability and safety are concerned,” added Lars Kobberstad, CEO of Norsk Luftambulanse AS. “Due to its reliability in difficult weather and terrain, the H135 has been our helicopter of choice for years. The demanding operations in Norway and Denmark depend on advanced equipment and skills, and the deliveries from Airbus have proven to be most suitable for us for many years. With the improvements of the coming H135 we expect to have the right tool for our missions in the coming years.”
Airbus Helicopters has delivered nearly 1,200 helicopters of the H135-family to customers around the globe, which have logged more than 3 million flight hours. One-quarter of this total fleet is deployed for EMS duties.
