Metro Aviation has signed an agreement for up to 36 H140s for use in the emergency medical services (EMS) sector; firm order for 12, with options for 24 more. The Louisiana-based air medical operator thus becomes one of the launch customers for the groundbreaking aircraft.

For the past several years, Metro Aviation has worked closely with Airbus and its team in Germany, following along with the certification process, to develop the most advanced and efficient EMS interior tailored specifically for US operators. Leveraging its extensive experience in medical transport solutions, it has played a key role in ensuring the H140 is optimised for lifesaving missions; its engineering team has been diligently working on an EMS interior in preparation for the aircraft’s certification.

“The air medical sector needs a disrupter,” says Metro vice president Todd Stanberry. “The H140 is answering a loud cry from our customers and partners, and we recognise its potential. We are thrilled to be at the forefront of this transformative shift and look forward to incorporating the H140 into our operations.

“We are excited about the H140 and all the improvements it brings to the helicopter industry. We have partnered with Airbus for over 40 years, and it is good to have the opportunity to provide input into the design of this aircraft that is designed for the air medical mission. We are already in the process of designing an air medical interior that will set the standard for providing safe and high quality air medical transportation for the next several years.”

“Our longstanding partners at Metro Aviation have built a reputation for delivering world-class services for customers, and we are proud they will be partnering with us once again in the launch of the H140 helicopter,” says Airbus’ US president and head of the North America region Bart Reijnen. “We are certain these new Airbus Helicopters will enhance its operational capabilities, allowing it to better serve communities across the country.”

The H140 raises the bar, in the light twin-engined category, for performance, cost-effectiveness, and passenger and crew comfort. It is a three-tonne class rotorcraft that complements Airbus Helicopters’ current light twin offering for the emergency medical services, passenger transport, and private and business aviation markets. The entry into service of the helicopter is planned in 2028 for the EMS segment.