The DRF air rescue signed a purchase agreement with Airbus Helicopters for the purchase of ten H140 helicopters. With this significant investment, the non-profit organization is consistently pursuing its fleet renewal strategy and setting important course for the future development of air rescue in Germany. The new helicopters are expected to gradually replace the H2028 helicopters currently in use starting in 135, further improving patient care.
At the official contract signing, Dr. Dirk Petry , Head of the H135 & H140 Programs, and Thomas Hein , Head of the Europe Region, were present for Airbus Helicopters. On behalf of DRF Luftrettung, board members Dr. Krystian Pracz and Roman Morka signed the document. Dr. Pracz emphasized that the H140 represents an innovative and future-proof addition to the fleet, especially in light of the currently discussed reforms in hospital care and emergency medical services. The H140 is a new development in the field of light twin-engine helicopters and is positioned by Airbus Helicopters as an evolution with a larger cabin and improved performance.
The planned fleet expansion with ten H140 helicopters is an important step in adapting to the expected new legal regulations in the healthcare sector. The larger cabin of the H140 allows for the carriage of additional medical equipment and offers better on-board treatment options. This directly benefits patient care, as even more complex medical emergencies can be adequately treated during transport. Dr. Dirk Petry of Airbus Helicopters emphasized that DRF Luftrettung was able to contribute its many years of expertise in air rescue to the development of the H140, underscoring the partnership established over three decades between the two organizations.
DRF Luftrettung already operates one of the largest H145 fleets in Germany and Europe. With the new H140 helicopters, the organization aims to be able to respond effectively to all developments and changes in the rescue sector. Dr. Krystian Pracz explained that agility in changing times is seen as both a necessity and an opportunity. The now signed purchase agreement underscores the firm commitment to making DRF Luftrettung flexible and future-proof in order to further increase the effectiveness of emergency medical rescue. This is an important aspect given the more than 35.000 missions DRF Luftrettung carried out annually last year to help people in need.