The Airbus H145 has proven to be a highly capable platform for HEMS operations with an excellent balance of operating costs, reliability, payload, cabin configuration, range and ability to operate in the harsh conditions often experienced in the extreme weather environments.

The key benefits as we see them of the H145 within a HEMS deployment are:

• 3 or 4 TSO approved crash-worthy rotating seats (4th typically fixed) ergonomically placed for optimum patient care in accordance with EN13718-2 HEMS Norms (AW169 4 seats but fixed location).
• H145 indicative cabin layout
• Wheeled or carry on stretcher base compatible (AW169 is carry-on only)
• Cabin volume (6m3) comparable to Leonardo AW169 (6.3m3) with a 900kg lighter airframe
• Flat floor area 4.7m2 is ~7% larger than AW169
• Wheeled or carry on stretcher base compatible (the Leonardo AW169 is carry-on only)
• Cabin length at 3.45m supports easy use of Kendrick splint (AW169 is 2.77m)
• Greater medical wall space available due to smaller sliding doors
• ~2 minute start time on the H145 is quicker than the AW169 meaning faster HEMS response times
• Lower load height (assuming rear access on the H145) by 25% than the AW169
• All stowage accessible in flight (AW169 has separate cargo compartment)
• Skids rather than wheels means ~8x less load per contact area in the AW169 – preferable for ‘soft landing zone’ operations
• Lower downwash (due to lower weight) means less disturbance and risk of damage / disturbance
• All stowage accessible in flight (AW169 has separate cargo compartment)
• More fuel efficient (269kg/hr versus 290 kg/hr) and lower weight mean lower annual operating costs

The D3 variant would have minor differences / enhancements to the D2 including the latest 5 blade rotor head providing reduced in-cabin vibration (noting that the D2 remains a very comfortable aircraft) and enhancing payload by 100kg; an updated avionics software package and also a wireless data download capability as standard.

Our Special Mission team have the capability to offer the following services to those considering the AW169 for HEMS work:

• Mission Systems. The evaluation, design, prototyping, testing & embodiment of cockpit, operator, aircraft or sensor equipment that enhances the mission capability of a platform.
• Mission Support. The supporting ecosystem that drives platform availability be that maintenance, crews, medical teams, operators or other vital functions.
• Mission Solutions. Full turnkey capabilities that provide all the relevant equipment, platforms, facilities and people to deliver the mission requirement 24/7/365.