Avincis Group (Avincis), the world’s leading provider of aerial services for mission critical operations, and Eurocopter today announced a global framework agreement, including the acquisition of 10 new EC145 T2 helicopters for emergency medical service (EMS) work.

Announced at Heli-Expo in Las Vegas, the agreement covers aftermarket support and training, as well as the purchase of aircraft for use by its operating companies across the world.

Perfectly suited for the most demanding mission requirements, the EC145 T2 is the newest 4-ton-category twin-engine helicopter in Eurocopter’s product range. Three of these latest additions to Avincis’ 350-strong fleet will be used to deliver life-saving EMS missions services in the UK, with the rest being destined for use in Western Europe. The initial aircraft will be delivered in the first half of 2014.

Avincis Group CEO James Drummond said: “As a mission critical services business, Avincis needs to ensure we have the right fleet to enable us to react quickly, handle any emergency and go wherever our customers need us – always ready, always there. We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with Eurocopter, who are an important partner in our future growth.”

Lutz Bertling, the President & CEO of Eurocopter, added: “This agreement marks the latest step in a four-decade relationship with the Avincis Group. As a result, the EC145 T2’s operational capabilities will be available to an even broader segment of the global EMS community.”

Over the past five years, Avincis has invested over €400 million on the purchase of new aircraft, allowing it to operate one of the most modern and technologically-advanced fleets in Europe. Headquartered in the UK, the Group provides central resources, global standards and systems and expertise to its 13 local operating companies.

Last year, Avincis companies flew over 108,500 hours, conducted over 50,600 emergency health care missions, rescued more than 8,600 people at sea or on mountains, helped to put out over 7,800 fires and carried more than 175,900 passengers in the oil and gas industries.

About Avincis Group

Avincis is the world’s leading provider of aerial services for mission-critical operations such as medical emergency, civil protection, search & rescue, coast and city surveillance, fire fighting and energy support services. Based in the UK, the Group provides central resources, safety and operating standards and systems and expertise to its operating companies who serve local markets and customers in Spain, Italy, France, Portugal, Chile, Peru, UK, Norway, Australia and Ireland. Of primary importance is the Group’s oversight of safety standards across all its operations, with a global target of zero accidents. In 2012, the Group flew over 108,500 hours worldwide