Germany-based HEMS operator DRF Luftrettung will install the HeliMods Powered Aero Loader (PAL) on its fleet of H145 medevac helicopters. Last year, with cooperation from HeliMods, DRF acquired the EASA STC for the PAL.
The electro-hydraulic system allows the rapid loading and unloading of ambulance stretchers into the aircraft with just the push of a button. It is currently being tested at DRF’s bases in Stuttgart and Regensburg.
“After successful completion of the test, we will be the first provider in European air rescue to use the stretcher ourselves,” said DRF CEO Krystian Pracz. “It not only benefits the patients but also enables the crews to work even more ergonomically.”
The two companies will pursue a partnership to distribute the PAL in the European market, signing a letter of intent to that goal this week at Heli-Expo 2024.
“The patient and crew are always at the forefront of our products and the system has been very successful in use in Australia and Canada for several years,” said HeliMods managing director Will Shrapnel. “We will now work out the next steps together with DRF Luftrettung so that the PAL can be available for operators across Europe.”