PARIS – American Eurocopter has announced that Air Methods Corporation, the world's largest air medical transportation provider, has ordered four AS350 B3 helicopters. These aircraft will update and expand its extensive fleet that already includes more than 240 Eurocopter helicopters.
“This purchase highlights Air Method’s leadership in providing technologically advanced aircraft to meet the performance, mission and fiscal demands of the air medical industry,” said Marc Paganini, President and CEO of American Eurocopter. “Air Methods is a world leader and a valued customer, and we look forward to continuing to provide them with the best aircraft in the industry and supplying the support and services they need as they continue to grow their company.”
The AS350 family has been gaining popularity in the U.S. air medical industry because it provides performance and a flexible platform combined with a low cost of operation.
“We chose the B3’s because these aircraft will be supporting locations that require the hot/high capabilities of the B3,” said Archie Gray, Air Methods Vice President, Aviation Support Services. “This is a powerful and reliable airframe that provides us with an economical choice to meet and exceed our mission requirements.”
The aircraft are currently scheduled to begin delivering this summer. They will be completed by Air Methods Products division, which specializes in the design and manufacture of aeromedical and aerospace technology. When completed, the helicopters will be put into service supporting programs in Oregon and Arizona.
Air Methods Corporation is a leader in emergency air medical transportation and medical services. The company operates a variety of Eurocopter products, including EC130s, EC135s, EC145s, AS350s, AS365s, BK117s and BO105s and its Air Medical Services Division is the largest provider of air medical transport services for hospitals.
About American Eurocopter
American Eurocopter is the U.S. affiliate of Eurocopter, the largest helicopter manufacturer in the world, and a subsidiary of EADS North America Holdings, the North American operations of EADS, the second largest aerospace and defense company in the world. American Eurocopter is a helicopter manufacturer and markets, sells and supports the broadest range of civil and para-public helicopters offered by any manufacturer. The product line represents the most cost-effective, technologically-advanced helicopters, ranging from light single to heavy twin, serving all markets and missions. American Eurocopter’s headquarters and main facility are in Grand Prairie, TX, with a large manufacturing and production facility in Columbus, MS.
