ADAC Luftrettung, a Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) operator has signed a long-term framework contract with Airbus for H135, H140, and H145 aircraft, following on from an initial agreement signed at VERTICON 2025 that placed ADAC as the H140 launch customer.
ADAC operates a fleet of 60 Airbus helicopters across 37 stations in Europe. Meanwhile, Airbus is the leading provider of HEMS helicopters, currently holding 54% of the global fleet of 2,900 HEMS aircraft.
“By investing in these new aircraft, we are deliberately embracing state-of-the-art flight technology that will significantly enhance our airborne emergency medical care over the long term,” said Frédéric Bruder, CEO of the nonprofit ADAC Luftrettung. “A diversified fleet with different helicopter types enables us to respond optimally to the specific operational requirements of emergency medical services. And with these aircraft, we are fully capable of performing rescue missions at any time – around the clock and even in darkness. This framework agreement ensures that patient and flight safety – our absolute top priorities – will continue to remain at the highest possible level in the future. And we will achieve this in a needs-based manner, with lower fuel consumption and greater cost efficiency.”
“We are proud to continue our decades-long partnership with ADAC Luftrettung as they lead the way into the future of air rescue,” commented Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. “By integrating the H135, H145, and our newest 3-tonne class H140 into their fleet, ADAC Luftrettung is ensuring maximum versatility and efficiency. This framework contract underscores our shared mission to provide crews with the quietest, safest, and most technologically advanced tools to deliver life-saving care and support for those in critical need every single day.”
Photo: Airbus
