Rotorcraft
Airbus H145 a Popular Choice for European Air Ambulances
The five-blade Airbus Helicopters H145 is gaining traction with European air ambulance operators.
Norwegian Air Ambulance Airbus H145D3 helicopter
Norwegian Air Ambulance became the first operator to take the five-blade H145 in 2020. (Photo: Norwegian Air Ambulance)

The latest variant Airbus Helicopters H145 light twin turbine helicopter is finding favor with air ambulance, search and rescue, and police operators in Europe, particularly where high/hot considerations factor into mission planning.

Announced in 2019 and EASA-certified in 2020, the five-blade H145D3 features the new bearingless main rotor design that provides a smoother ride, requires less maintenance, and increases useful load by 330 pounds compared to the four-bladed H145D2. The European certification covers single-pilot IFR operations, single-engine category A/VTOL, and night vision capability. The H145 is the only rotorcraft of its class to take off and land at 20,000 feet.

Loading…