Verticon 2025: Metro Aviation signs 36 heli purchase deal with Airbus
In a significant deal announced at Verticon 2025, Metro Aviation and Airbus Helicopters have signed an agreement for up to 36 H140 helicopters focused on the emergency medical services (EMS) sector. The agreement includes a firm order for 12 H140 helicopters with options for 24 additional aircraft, positioning Metro Aviation as one of the launch customers for the newly unveiled H140.
“Our longstanding partners at Metro Aviation have built a reputation for delivering world-class services for customers and we are proud they will be partnering with us once again in the launch of the H140 helicopter,” said Bart Reijnen, president of Airbus Helicopters in the US and head of the North America Region.
Based in Shreveport, Louisiana, Metro Aviation operates air medical helicopters and airplanes for healthcare providers and specialises in multi-mission helicopter customisations.
The H140 represents a significant advancement in the light twin-engined category, offering enhanced performance, cost-effectiveness, and comfort. The 3-tonne class rotorcraft features numerous innovations, including a T-shaped tail boom with optimized Fenestron for reduced noise, a five-blade bearingless main rotor, and powerful new Safran engines.
Designed with medical services in mind, the H140 provides larger cabin space, improved accessibility through large clamshell doors and sliding doors, and capabilities for various stretcher systems including intensive care units and transport incubators. The helicopter is scheduled to enter service in 2028 for the EMS segment.
Other major deals at Verticon 2025:
Air Methods: 21 helicopters (H140s, H125s, H135s) for nationwide air medical services.
DRF Luftrettung: Ten H140 helicopters for emergency medical services throughout Germany.
ADAC Luftrettung & ÖAMTC Flugrettung: Ten H140 helicopters (5 each) for air rescue in Germany and Austria.
UK National Police Air Service: Seven H135 helicopters for law enforcement operations across England and Wales.
New York State Police: Four helicopters (1 H160, 3 H145s) for police, lifesaving, and environmental conservation services.
STAT MedEvac: Up to three H140 helicopters for medical transport across the Eastern United States.
Omni Taxi Aéreo: Support contract for three H160 helicopters serving Petrobras offshore operations in Brazil.
Westair Helicopters: Support contract for three H225 helicopters supporting TotalEnergies’ exploration in Namibia.
