Quebec, Canada-based air ambulance provider Airmedic has committed to purchasing three Airbus EC145e aircraft from Metro Aviation. These will be the first EC145e models in Canada. “We have always been striving to set the standards of our industry, to build a culture of excellence and to capitalise on the most advanced equipment and technologies," says Airmedic executive VP Sophie Larochelle. "Today, we are improving on an already highly performing aircraft fleet with the world's best aircraft in order to provide better coverage of the territory, more strategic dispatching and enhanced services to our clients."

The new aircraft will be completed at Metro's facility in Shreveport, Louisiana and equipped with an EMS interior, as well as Genesys Aerosystem's HeliSAS three-axis autopilot stability augmentation system and Genesys EFIS system for single/dual pilot IFR operation.

Metro and Genesys Aerosystems have partnered together for several STC's on the EC145e aircraft. They expect an IFR certification for the three-axis HeliSAS for the EC145e in late December, and will then pursue Transport Canada certification.

Airmedic's investment will enable the company to deploy aircraft tailored for air medical transport that are known for their versatility and reliability, to support lifesaving missions throughout Quebec. The new helicopters will bring the company's total fleet to nine HEMS-dedicated aircraft.

“The EC145e fits a variety of mission profiles,” comments Metro president Mike Stanberry. “Its increased useful load and large cabin make it a great choice for the Canadian market. We are excited to see it gain momentum there and look forward to a great relationship with Airmedic."

Metro Aviation will also carry out the required training for Airmedic's instructors and pilots, utilising the EC145 Level D full motion simulator at its Shreveport Helicopter Flight Training Center.