Paris, 18 June 2025 – Norwegian Air Ambulance has entered into a frame contract with Airbus for the acquisition of up to eight H145 helicopters. This agreement includes the firm purchase of two helicopters.
Thomas Hein, Head of Europe Region at Airbus Helicopters, stated, “We are honored to open yet another chapter with the Norwegian Air Ambulance, providing up to eight H145 helicopters under this new frame contract.” He emphasized the H145’s reputation in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services and its low acoustic footprint and CO2 emissions as factors making it an ideal choice for life-saving missions.
Leif Olstad, CEO of the Norwegian Air Ambulance, commented on their selection as Norway’s helicopter emergency medical services provider. He said, “With its size and capabilities, the H145 has proven well-suited for the Norwegian service, making it a natural choice.”
Currently operating all HEMS bases in Norway with a fleet predominantly composed of Airbus H135 and H145 helicopters, Norwegian Air Ambulance is supported by its parent company, the Norwegian Air Ambulance Foundation. The foundation was notable for being the first worldwide operator to receive a five-bladed H145 in 2020.
The latest model of Airbus’ popular light twin-engine helicopter features an innovative five-bladed rotor that increases load capacity by 150kg. The bearingless main rotor design simplifies maintenance operations while enhancing serviceability and reliability.
More than 1,750 helicopters from the H145 family are operational globally, accumulating over eight million flight hours. Equipped with Safran Arriel 2E engines and advanced digital systems like FADEC and Helionix avionics suite including a high-performance autopilot system—these features contribute to safety enhancements and reduced pilot workload. Notably, the helicopter maintains a quiet acoustic profile alongside minimal CO2 emissions within its class.
Airbus Helicopters leads as a provider in air medical transport with 54% share among EMS helicopters worldwide.
