MedSTAR Transport showcased its new Airbus H145 D3 helicopter at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center in Olney on Wednesday, October 14, giving associates an up-close look at an aircraft designed to expand care capabilities for critically ill and injured patients. The unveiling at the Olney hospital was part of an effort to introduce the helicopter to MedStar Health associates across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region.
According to MedStar, the larger aircraft provides more room for medical equipment and additional clinicians, helping crews transport patients who require highly specialized care. Those patients include newborns needing neonatal intensive care, bariatric patients, and patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or ECMO, a temporary heart-lung support system.
The helicopter’s larger cabin creates additional usable space for patient care and equipment securement, particularly during missions requiring an expanded clinical team. It also has space for two stretchers, providing greater flexibility during extraordinary response situations.
MedStar says the aircraft offers an additional 1,000 pounds of payload capacity, allowing greater flexibility for personnel, medical equipment, fuel, and other mission requirements. Increased fuel capacity also supports longer mission planning options.
A five-blade rotor system provides greater lift and a smoother ride for patients and crews delivering care in flight. More powerful engines support the aircraft’s higher weight capacity and improve performance in demanding conditions, including high heat and humidity.
The added cabin space is particularly important for transports involving ECMO, neonatal intensive care, or other specialized treatments that require multiple medical devices and additional clinicians.
