New Rescue Helicopter unveiled at Christchurch Rescue Base

In August of 2019 two new air ambulance helicopters were launched for the South Island air rescue service; it is the first time these highly-specified helicopters have been used in New Zealand for emergency medical purposes. New Zealand’s Health Minister Hon Dr David Clark unveiled the new Airbus H145 twin-engine helicopters in Christchurch at the GCH Aviation Centre. One will be operating out of Dunedin and the other is now operational based in Christchurch. It is an incredible milestone for the service across the South Island.

The H145 is tailored for primary and secondary missions and intensive care transport. The cabin area is more spacious allowing better maneuverability and improved patient care. The cabin accommodates one or two wheeled stretchers with partial or full suites of medical equipment for operation by medical crew. The new Helionix avionics system allows safe and easy operation under challenging conditions and the low external sound level allows more neighbourhood friendly operations in urban areas and close to hospitals. It is a great step forward and one welcomed by all of the crew.

To watch a video of the new H145 Rescue Helicopter in action, visit our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CWCairrescue/videos/712295559218763/