Airbus, a global leader in the aerospace industry, recently celebrated a significant milestone with the 1500th delivery of its renowned H135 helicopter. This achievement underscores the H135’s position as a market leader, especially in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) operations. The Airbus H135 has garnered acclaim from operators worldwide for its versatility, performance, and reliability in various missions, from search and rescue to offshore wind farm maintenance and critical care transport.
The 1500th H135 Delivery
On August 30, 2023, ADAC Luftrettung, one of Europe’s leading HEMS operators, received the 1500th H135 helicopter. This addition further strengthens their fleet, which already boasts several H135 and H145 helicopters. The H135’s delivery to such a prestigious operator highlights its reputation as the preferred choice for HEMS operations globally.
Global Acclaim for the H135
Several operators and pilots have shared their experiences with the H135, emphasizing its exceptional capabilities. Geoff Doran, Chief Pilot at Blackcomb Helicopters, recounted his memorable journey flying the H135 across Canada’s diverse landscapes. Similarly, James Houser, President and CEO of the Center for Emergency Medicine of Western Pennsylvania, including STAT Medevac, praised the H135’s modern design and functionality.
Operational Excellence in Diverse Conditions
The H135 has proven its mettle in various challenging environments. Peter Fleischhacker, Head of Flight Operations at ÖAMTC Air Rescue Regiments, highlighted the helicopter’s reliability in Austria’s extreme weather conditions, from scorching summers to freezing winters. The H135’s advanced features, such as the autopilot, Night Vision Goggle-compatible cockpit, First Limit Indicator, and state-of-the-art navigation systems, significantly reduce pilot workload and enhance situational awareness.
Unmatched Versatility
With its spacious cabin, impressive performance, and payload capacity, the H135 is not only a benchmark for HEMS services but also an invaluable asset for search and rescue missions. Its design facilitates easy patient loading and unloading, further enhanced by its shrouded Fenestron tail rotor for added safety. Fleischhacker aptly described the H135 as a “flying laptop with rotor blades on top,” emphasizing its advanced features and capabilities.
Specialized Missions with the Airbus H135
HTM, a major helicopter company in the German-speaking world, utilizes the H135 for diverse missions, from corporate transport to avalanche blasting. However, its primary role lies in offshore wind farm operations and maintenance. Bernd Brucherseifer, HTM Managing Director and active pilot, discussed the challenges and requirements of hoisting at wind power turbines with the H135. Despite the demanding nature of offshore operations, the H135’s reliability, design, and comfort stand out, making it a favorite among pilots and operators alike.
Decades of Experience and Innovation
The H135’s legacy is built on over 40 years of experience in the offshore segment. Its two engine options, provided by Safran Helicopter Engines and Pratt & Whitney Canada, offer outstanding performance, power reserves, and fuel efficiency. These attributes make the H135 a trusted choice for various missions, from oil and gas transport to sea pilot transfers.
The 1500th delivery of the Airbus H135 is a testament to its unparalleled excellence, versatility, and reliability. As Airbus continues to innovate and enhance its offerings, the H135 remains a symbol of its commitment to delivering world-class aerospace solutions.