ACE 2026 - September 8th
The bimonthly news publication for aviation professionals.
Kasi Healthcare has signed an agreement with Airbus Helicopters for the procurement of up to two H135 helicopters, configured for emergency medical services in Nigeria. The deal was signed during the 3rd Nigeria Airlift Forum.
The agreement makes Kasi the first customer for the HEMS-configured H135 in Nigeria. The aircraft is built specifically to support critical medical missions, emergency response, patient transfers and life-saving aeromedical operations, giving the operator a purpose-built platform rather than an adapted general-purpose helicopter.
“We are incredibly proud to pioneer the introduction of the HEMS-configured Airbus H135 in Nigeria,” says Dr Dayo Osholowu, medical director at Kasi Healthcare. “This strategic investment transforms our ability to provide rapid, life-saving patient transfers and critical care in transit. Partnering with Airbus allows us to elevate national healthcare standards and deliver dependable emergency response when and where it is needed most.”
“The H135 is a perfect choice for Kasi Healthcare as it develops a sustainable HEMS ecosystem in Nigeria,” adds Fabrice Rochereau, head of sales for Africa at Airbus Helicopters. The aircraft has built a strong track record in emergency medical missions worldwide, he notes, citing its performance and versatile cabin layout.
Beyond the aircraft order, the partnership includes support from Airbus Helicopters to build local capacity. This covers HEMS flight crew training, pilot development, engineer training and technical capability building, together with maintenance support infrastructure and operational support intended to meet international safety and reliability standards. The agreement is positioned as a step towards establishing Nigeria as a regional centre for air medical services across the energy and public safety sectors.