HUNTINGTON, WEST VIRGINIA – April 8, 2025 – HealthNet Aeromedical Services, in collaboration with Marshall Health Network, and its long-standing aviation partner Air Methods, proudly announced the planned arrival of a new Airbus H135 helicopter during a recent event. The new aircraft, which will be delivered to HealthNet’s Huntington, WV base location in December 2025, will replace the current EC130 at that base, marking another milestone in the nearly 40-year partnership between the two organizations—one rooted in a shared mission to provide safe, high-quality air medical transport across Central Appalachia. With this upgrade, all 10 HealthNet Aeromedical Services aircraft will be twin-engine, single pilot, instrument flight rules (IFR) platforms.

“Throughout our history, we have focused on sustaining a high-performing system predicated on long-standing relationships,” said HealthNet Aeromedical Services President and CEO Clinton Burley, adding that the program was built on legacy relationships.  “Such is the case with our partnership with Air Methods.  We share mutual trust that leads to increased safety, and improved outcomes for patients. This new aircraft is but another example of how this solid foundation benefits those whom our program serves.”

The H135 offers improved weight-bearing capacity, allowing for the safe transport of heavier patients or those requiring additional medical equipment. With a larger cabin space—6.1 cubic meters compared to 3.7 cubic meters in the EC130—the new helicopter will provide medical crews with more room to deliver critical care level services in flight.

The H135 also enhances HealthNet’s mission capabilities by allowing for planned flights under IFR, ensuring safer operation in challenging weather conditions such as heavy rain or low clouds. Its rear clamshell-style doors make loading and offloading patients easier and more efficient, ultimately improving response times and patient experiences.

“For more than 40 years, Air Methods and HealthNet Aeromedical Services have built a partnership rooted in trust, clinical excellence, safety and a shared passion for saving lives,” said Tony Raymond, Senior Vice President of Major Accounts at Air Methods. “This fleet investment is just one more example of how we are working together to advance care for patients across the region.”

Air Methods’ experienced and robust maintenance team will support the new H135, ensuring that the aircraft remains mission-ready and well-maintained.