Swiss Air-Rescue Rega has taken the decision to retrofit its entire H145 fleet of seven helicopters to the new five-bladed version, making it the launch customer.

“We're proud to be among the first customers to upgrade our H145 to the new version,” says Heinz Leibundgut, chief pilot and member of Rega's management board. “Our patients will profit from the increased useful load. It is a great benefit for our air rescue operation, where every additional kilogram is crucial, especially in challenging environments like the Alps.”

Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, adds: “Airbus Helicopters is pleased that Rega has taken the decision to upgrade its entire H145 fleet to the new version. We thank Rega for its continued trust in our H145 family of helicopters.”

Rega is currently replacing its EC145 fleet with H145 helicopters. Six out of seven H145s have already been delivered, with the last one to follow in May this year. The helicopters of the H145 family have been in service with Rega for more than 15 years.

The new upgrade of the H145 is said to embody Airbus' approach to value creation through innovation. It boasts new features that will allow customers to enhance their operations: the innovative five blade bearingless rotor increases the useful load by 150 kg, further enhancing the mission capabilities of the aircraft. This new rotor also improves crew and passenger comfort. Other advantages include a smaller D-value, allowing the H145 to operate in more confined areas, simplified maintenance and an increased availability rate.