Air Methods becomes US launch customer for EC135 P3 helicopter

Airbus Helicopters Ec135 T3/P3 (Creidt Airbus Helicopters Charles Abarr)

American Eurocopter has announced that Air Methods has become the US launch customer for the Eurocopter EC135 P3.

The EC135 P3 is the latest version of the twin-engine helicopter that is popular with the air medical transport industry. The order for six aircraft was confirmed by Air Methods officials in ceremonies at the Heli-Expo 2013.

“We are extremely pleased that an industry leader like Air Methods has chosen to add this high performance Eurocopter model to its fleet,” said Marc Paganini, president and chief executive of American Eurocopter. “Air Methods, by choosing to be the launch customer of this new variant, has endorsed the quality, safety and reliability of Eurocopter products and the customer support of American Eurocopter.”

The commitment to acquire the EC135 P3 is part of an order placed by Air Methods in December 2012 for a total of 22 Eurocopter aircraft valued at more than $80 million. That order also included 10 EC130T2 and six AS350B3e single engine helicopters.

“We are excited about continuing to improve transport capability and safety for our crews, patients and customers,” said Archie Gray, senior vice president, Air Methods Aviation Services. “The P3 will give us the ability to operate in extreme environments without any compromise to safety, and shows Eurocopter’s commitment to continued product improvements.”