Global Medical Response expands fleet with Airbus

Global Medical Response (GMR) has ordered 28 Airbus helicopters, including six H125s, five H130s, fourteen H135s, and three H145s, to continue expanding its medical airlift fleet. Following an order for five Airbus helicopters in early 2024, GMR will operate a fleet of nearly 200 Airbus helicopters, strengthening its position as one of the largest Airbus helicopter operators in North America.

In addition to the 28 helicopters ordered, GMR will have the option to purchase an additional 23 new Airbus helicopters over the next three years. With this order, GMR will likely be among the first to operate the IFR-capable H125 in North America.

GMR is a leader in the air medical transport industry, with nearly 36,000 employees providing caring, quality medical care in the United States and around the world. It operates 387 air bases under brands such as Air Evac Lifeteam, REACH Air Medical Services, Med-Trans Corporation, AirMed International, and Guardian Flight. As of 2021, more than 30 Airbus helicopters have been added to GMR’s fleet.

As a major supplier of air medical transport helicopters, Airbus has been supporting North American operators in helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) missions for more than 50 years. The single-engine H125 and H130 helicopters offer best-in-class visibility, as well as modular and spacious cabins that are ideal for HEMS missions. Because of its excellent performance, the H125 is particularly well suited for operations in hot and high-altitude environments.

The H135 is the world market leader in HEMS operations, followed by the H145. Both are equipped with Airbus’ Helionix avionics suite, which allows a near seamless transition between the two models, improving safety and reducing pilot workload. In addition, the low noise impact makes the H135 and H145 the quietest helicopters in their class, with the lowest CO2 emissions among direct competitors.

Sources and images

• Airbus Press Release