ADAC Luftrettung and Airbus Helicopters have signed a long-term framework agreement covering H135, H140 and H145 helicopters, formalising plans first outlined at last year’s Verticon where ADAC was named launch customer and development partner for the H140.

Frédéric Bruder, CEO of ADAC Luftrettung, says: “By investing in these new aircraft, we are deliberately embracing state-of-the-art flight technology that will significantly enhance our airborne emergency medical care over the long term. A diversified fleet with different helicopter types enables us to respond optimally to the specific operational requirements of emergency medical services. And with these aircraft, we are fully capable of performing rescue missions at any time, around the clock and even in darkness.”

ADAC Luftrettung operates 60 Airbus Helicopters across 37 bases and completed around 50,000 missions in 2025. The H140, unveiled in March last year, sits in the three-tonne class and is designed for EMS, passenger and business aviation roles, with entry into service targeted for 2028. The H135 and H145 remain widely used in HEMS operations, both featuring Helionix avionics to support commonality, reduced pilot workload and lower noise and emissions profiles.

Airbus Helicopters supplies more than half of the world’s EMS helicopter fleet, with around 2,900 aircraft in service.