DRF Luftrettung modernizes fleet with new Airbus H140 helicopters

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DRF Luftrettung expands fleet: Purchase contract for ten Airbus H140 helicopters signed

Today, DRF Luftrettung took a groundbreaking step in the modernization of its helicopter fleet at its base at Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden Airport. In the presence of high-ranking representatives from Airbus Helicopters, the purchase contract for ten new H140 helicopters was ceremoniously signed. This step is part of the non-profit organization’s strategic fleet expansion and is intended to address both the increasing demands of the rescue service and current health policy challenges.

Strengthening the future viability of air rescue with innovative machines

The new H140 helicopters, scheduled to enter service in 2028, feature state-of-the-art technology and an optimized cabin design. With larger cabins and expanded medical equipment options, they offer significantly improved conditions for patient care directly at the scene of an emergency. With the introduction of the H140, DRF Luftrettung is responding to the increasing complexity of the healthcare system and the planned legislative changes regarding hospital and emergency rescue.

Dr. Krystian Pracz, CEO of DRF Luftrettung, emphasized the strategic importance of the new introduction: “With the H140, we are adding a modern aircraft to our fleet that will enable us to care for and transport patients faster, safer, and more efficiently. Especially in light of the upcoming reforms, we are ideally positioned to continue fulfilling our mission at the highest medical standards.”

Airbus Helicopters: Proven partnership and innovative development

The cooperation between DRF Luftrettung and Airbus Helicopters has existed for over three decades. This long-standing partnership began in the 1990s with the use of the EC135 and was further expanded with the integration of the H145 in 2014. This successful collaboration continues with the H140, with DRF Luftrettung contributing its extensive operational experience to the development of the aircraft.

Dr. Dirk Petry, Head of the H135 & H140 Programs at Airbus Helicopters, commented on the contract signing: “DRF Luftrettung is an important partner for us. Through close collaboration, we were able to optimize the H140 specifically for the special requirements of air rescue. We are pleased to be working together to create a modern and powerful fleet that will significantly shape the rescue services of the future.”

Fleet renewal as a response to changing requirements

DRF Air Rescue‘s operational scope extends to a wide range of life-saving scenarios, which are becoming increasingly complex and challenging. The fleet expansion with ten additional H140s will contribute to significantly increasing the organization’s flexibility and efficiency. At the same time, the gradual replacement of the existing H135 models will be initiated to keep the fleet state-of-the-art.

Roman Morka, also a member of the board of DRF Luftrettung, emphasized the importance of agility in a changing rescue environment: “In times of constant change within the healthcare system, it is essential for us to act flexibly and proactively. The investment in the H140 enables us to proactively address these challenges and ensure sustainable care for the population.”

Technical highlights and medical advantages of the H140 helicopter

The Airbus H140 combines the advantages of proven helicopter systems with innovative features specifically tailored to air rescue. These include:

• A spacious cabin with optimized work surfaces for medical staff.
• Improved ergonomics and medical equipment for enhanced patient care, even during the flight.
• State-of-the-art avionics and flight systems that contribute to greater safety and better handling.
• Efficient fuel consumption and reduced operating costs compared to previous models.

These characteristics create optimal conditions for providing care-oriented and time-efficient services, even in complex clinical pictures and emergencies.

Perspectives for air rescue in Germany and Europe

DRF Luftrettung is one of the largest operators of H145 helicopters in Germany and Europe. By expanding its fleet with the H140, it is further strengthening its position as a leading provider in the field of medical air rescue. This is particularly important in the context of increasing hospital and emergency reforms, which require greater networking of care systems and rapid, targeted patient care.

With the new helicopters, the organization is addressing the challenges of demographic change, rising patient numbers, and increasingly diverse medical needs. The fleet expansion is an essential building block for maintaining and further improving the high quality standards in air rescue in the future.

Conclusion: Fit for the challenges of the future

The signing of the purchase contract for ten H140 helicopters marks a significant milestone in the development of DRF Luftrettung. It enables the modern and efficient continuation of its missions in the field of medical air rescue and a flexible response to changing health policy conditions.

Through the combination of innovative technology, comprehensive medical equipment, and a proven partnership with Airbus Helicopters, DRF Luftrettung is fit for the future. Emergency personnel benefit from improved working conditions, and patients benefit from even higher quality of care—thus making a lasting contribution to health and safety in Germany and Europe.

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