CareFlight has become Australia's first operator of the Airbus H145 light twin helicopter in HEMS configuration. The aircraft will be used by the aeromedical services provider for rapid response missions in the Sydney area.
CareFlight’s H145, which was unveiled last Friday, will carry a medical crew of three and a patient on full life support and intensive-care monitoring.
“The H145 is internationally recognised to be the most advanced aeromedical helicopter in the world," said CareFlight Chief Executive Officer, Mick Frewen. "We are very happy to be the first in the country to launch the H145 EMS, which will be immediately operative to save lives and deliver the best possible aeromedical service,”
The H145's rear doors open outwards so that EMS crews are able to load and unload patients on wheeled stretchers, reducing valuable transfer time. The H145 is a fit-for-purpose platform, offering a quick start solution and is capable of nimbly executing EMS missions within a metropolitan city.
The aircraft’s small footprint allows it to easily navigate among skyscrapers, landing and taking off quickly from point to point.
“It is an honour to welcome CareFlight as a new H145 operator, with EMS being a growing area of need in Australia," added Airbus Australia Pacific Managing Director, Andrew Mathewson.
"The H145 is a tried and tested platform with advanced operational capabilities and we are confident that it will not only fully meet CareFlight’s requirements but excel in its missions to save lives.”