Defense Arabia Defense Arabia is your source for the latest news on defense, national security and analysis in the Middle East.
HEMS999, an air ambulance operator under the MIT Group, signed an agreement on the 9th of September with Airbus Helicopters, for an order of seven H130 light helicopters. Scheduled for delivery starting towards the end of 2015, HEMS999 will be providing these rotorcraft for emergency medical services and rescues for road and highway accidents across the Shandong province.
“Shandong is one of the most economically vibrant regions in China. It is a big province with massive highways and a constantly increasing car population. We are convinced that the availability of air ambulance services will be greatly appreciated,” said Gai Fang, President of the MIT Group. “Airbus Helicopters has been very supportive and instrumental in making our ambition to operate the country’s first provincial HEMS network covering traffic accidents a reality.”
The H130 comes from the renowned Ecureuil light helicopter family which is typically operated by one pilot, but MIT’s H130 will be delivered with a two-pilot configuration. “This ability to accommodate two pilots is a key strength of the H130 – it helps to increase the flight experience of young pilots and adds to the pool of qualified pilots whose demand will keep increasing as China’s helicopter market continues to grow,” said Norbert Ducrot, President of Airbus Helicopters China.
In addition to the two-pilot configuration, the H130 can accommodate three medical staff or passengers comfortably in its rear seats and a specific HEMS kit inclusive of a stretcher, developed by Air Ambulance Technology. The HEMS kit can be installed via a “plug-and-play” function in less than 10 minutes. Performance and fuel efficiency is enhanced by the modern Turbomeca Arriel 2D engine.
“The H130’s entry into China’s HEMS market marks a breakthrough for this light aircraft, which is recognized worldwide for its performance, quality, comfort and multi-mission capability,” said Mathilde Royer, Vice President of Airbus Helicopters’ Light Helicopters Program. “The plugand-play EMS kit is a new development for the H130 which clearly demonstrated the versatility of its spacious cabin.”
Included in the well-rounded safety aspects of the H130 are the medical staff and patientfriendly facilities such as a wide cabin with unobstructed access and flat floor for easy placement of a stretcher; the Fenestron shrouded tail rotor for added safety when approaching the aircraft; the active vibration system and energy-absorbing seats to reduce vibration levels and improve comfort for the patient.
More than 500 H130s are in service today, accumulating 1.4 million flight hours performing multiple missions globally.
