Philippine Coast Guard has placed an order for one Airbus Helicopters H145, making it the first H145 parapublic operator in the Philippines.

The helicopter is specially equipped with high frequency radios, emergency flotation gear, fast roping, cargo sling, search light, and electro-optical systems to perform critical missions including search and rescue, medical evacuation, maritime patrol and law enforcement.

The contract includes on-site technical support and continuing airworthiness management organisation services, fully supported by Airbus’ team in the country.

The 4-tonne-class twin-engine H145 claims to be the market leader for rescue missions, with over 1,400 helicopters of the H145 family (BK117, EC145 and H145)in service globally. It is equipped with the Helionix avionics suite and 4-axis autopilot system.

There are currently four H145 helicopters operating in the Philippines, mainly for business aviation purposes.