Kasi Healthcare acquires Airbus H135 helicopters to boost aeromedical services
Kasi Healthcare has signed an agreement with Airbus Helicopters for the procurement of two Airbus H135 helicopters, the first of its kind in Nigeria, to support emergency aeromedical transport and services.
The deal was signed during the Nigeria Emergency Rescue, Aeromedical Transport and Airlift 2026 Forum (Airlift 2027) on Tuesday in Lagos.
The forum had the theme: “Supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda Through Aeromedical Transport”.
The agreement marked a significant step in the country’s efforts to strengthening air medical response capabilities.
Under the deal, Kasi Healthcare becomes the first operator in Nigeria to acquire Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS)-configured Airbus H135.
HEMS is a purpose-built aircraft designed for critical medical missions, patient transfers, emergency response operations and aeromedical evacuation services.
At the event, the Medical Director of Kasi Healthcare, Dr Dayo Osholowu, described the acquisition as a transformative investment in emergency healthcare delivery.
According to him, the helicopters will significantly improve the organisation’s ability to provide rapid patient transfers and critical care services during transit particularly in situations where timely medical intervention can make the difference between life and death.
Osholowu said that this acquisition would enable Kasi to offer full portfolio of medical courses among other expanded courses to boost capacity.
“We are incredibly proud to pioneer the introduction of the HEMS-configured Airbus H135 in Nigeria.
“This strategic investment transforms our ability to provide rapid, life-saving patient transfers and critical care in transit.
“Partnering with Airbus allows us to elevate national healthcare standards and deliver dependable emergency response when and where it is needed most,” Osholowu said.
He commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), for efforts to build trust in the sector.
Osholowu said that financial institutions had become convinced about the viability of such acquisitions.
Mr Fabrice Rochereau, Head of Sales for Africa at Airbus Helicopters, said the partnership reflected the commitment of Airbus to supporting the growth of emergency medical aviation services across Africa.
He noted that the H135 had established itself globally as a preferred helicopter for emergency medical missions because of its performance, reliability and flexible cabin configuration.
“We are proud to partner with Kasi Healthcare as it pioneers the development of a sustainable HEMS ecosystem in Nigeria.
“This agreement underscores our commitment to supporting expansion of life-saving air medical capabilities across West Africa,” Rochereau said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that under the agreement, Airbus Helicopters will provide extensive support aimed at building local aviation and healthcare capacity.
The collaboration includes specialised training for HEMS flight crews, pilot development programmes, aircraft engineering training and technical capability enhancement.
The partnership will also cover maintenance support infrastructure and operational assistance to ensure the two helicopters operate in accordance with international safety and reliability standards.
The partnership is expected to contribute to Nigeria’s broader healthcare transformation agenda while positioning the country as a potential regional hub for air medical services.
The Airbus H135 helicopter features Helionix digital avionics suite, a four-axis autopilot system and a spacious cabin that can be configured to accommodate medical personnel, patients and specialised life-support equipment.
With its compact footprint, low noise levels and high safety standards, the H135 is considered particularly suited for both primary emergency response missions and secondary patient transfer operations.
NAN reports that during the panel sections, stakeholders called for more helipads and improved infrastructure, such as lighting, at the existing helipads.
They also highlighted the necessity of capacity building and regulations.
Participants at the event include directors of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, pilots, medical practitioners, and representatives of SkyJet and Lagos State ambulance service.
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