On 15 June 2026, in Donauwörth, Germany, Airbus Helicopters and Avincis, one of the world’s leading aerial emergency services operators, signed a contract for up to 15 H145 helicopters. The new rotorcraft will strengthen Avincis’ operational presence in the Nordic countries, Italy and Spain for Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) and other missions, including offshore transportation.
Avincis is the largest aerial emergency services operator in Europe. It provides critical aviation services to the civil sector, saving lives, safeguarding communities and protecting the environment. The company operates a fleet of more than 220 aircraft, and employs a team of over 2,400 courageous and talented professionals, including highly experienced pilots, crews and technicians. Avincis has bases in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Norway, Sweden and Finland, and operates also in Mozambique and Chile.
The latest acquisition reflects Avincis’ long-term strategy of investing in advanced, mission-ready aircraft capable of meeting the diverse operational demands of its international network. As demand for emergency medical services, search and rescue missions and offshore transportation continues to grow, the company is seeking to ensure that its crews have access to modern, reliable platforms that can operate effectively in a variety of environments. The additional H145 helicopters will support this objective by enhancing operational flexibility and helping to maintain the high service standards expected by customers and public authorities throughout Europe.
The decision to further expand the H145 fleet also highlights Avincis´ confidence in a helicopter type that has become widely recognised for its versatility and suitability for critical missions. Combining advanced technology, operational efficiency and proven performance, the aircraft is well positioned to support the company´s efforts to modernise its fleet while maintaining readiness for time-sensitive and often challenging operations.
“The H145 is the ideal platform for our mission-critical operations, providing the reliability and performance required to save lives and protect communities in the most challenging environments. By expanding our fleet with up to 15 additional H145s, we are ensuring that our crews have the very best technology at their disposal to continue delivering world-class aerial emergency services and specialized offshore transportation across our European territories. We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Airbus as we modernise our fleet for the future,” said John Boag, CEO of Avincis Group.
The H145 is powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) and the Helionix digital avionics suite. Its high-performance four-axis autopilot increases safety and reduces pilot workload. The H145 has the lowest CO2 emissions and the quietest acoustic footprint in its class. More than 1,800 helicopters from the H145 family are currently in service worldwide, collectively accumulating over 8.5 million flight hours.
The technical characteristics of the H145 help to explain why the helicopter has become the preferred choice of operators conducting demanding public service and commercial missions. Emergency medical operations require high levels of reliability, safety and operational efficiency, while offshore transportation often involves flying in challenging weather conditions and to remote locations. The advanced avionics, reduced pilot workload and strong environmental performance of the H145 make the rotorcraft well suited to these varied requirements.
For Airbus Helicopters, the agreement also highlights the growing importance of the H145 for operators requiring a single platform capable of performing multiple mission profiles. The helicopter´s extensive global service record and its widespread adoption by emergency service providers have reinforced its reputation as a flexible and dependable solution for organisations seeking to balance operational capability with fleet modernisation goals.
“We are honoured that Avincis is once again turning to the H145 to support its vital missions across Europe. This agreement underscores the versatility of the H145 as a multi-mission powerhouse, capable of transitioning seamlessly from life-saving EMS duties to the demanding requirements of offshore wind and energy transport. Our goal is to provide Avincis with the most reliable and efficient tools to ensure their mission success, no matter how complex the operational environment,” stated Matthieu Louvot, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.
Cover photo: Avincis’ Airbus H145. ©Airbus
Press materials of the Airbus company were used.
