Helicopter Finance

Airbus H145 Finance Guide

The Airbus H145 is the leading HEMS and air ambulance helicopter in Europe, combining exceptional cabin space, twin-engine reliability and five-blade quiet technology. Doulton Bridging Finance arranges H145 finance for air ambulance charities, NHS-contracted operators, and commercial organisations.

Finance guide updated October 2026. Rates and figures are illustrative; subject to lender credit assessment.

Airbus H145 - Aircraft Overview

The Airbus H145 (formerly EC145) is a medium twin-engine helicopter that has become the standard-bearer for modern HEMS and air ambulance operations across Europe. The current H145 D3 variant features Airbus's revolutionary five-blade quiet tail rotor (fenestron replaced by a bearingless main rotor with five composite blades), providing a significant reduction in external noise - a critical factor for urban hospital rooftop operations.

Key Specifications (H145 D3)

Engines: Twin Safran Arriel 2E
Max cruise speed: 150 kts (278 km/h)
Range: approx. 680 km
Max takeoff weight: 3,800 kg
Payload: approx. 1,350 kg
Seats: 2 crew + up to 9 passengers (or HEMS fit)

Typical UK & Global Uses

Air ambulance / HEMS (primary role)
Police aviation (heavy fit)
Offshore oil and gas crew transfer
Utility and external load
Military light utility (H145M)

In the UK, the H145 is operated by several air ambulance charities including the London Air Ambulance and Magpas Air Ambulance. Its combination of cabin size, payload, twin-engine reliability and noise performance makes it the helicopter that operators choose when performance is non-negotiable.

Airbus H145 Finance - What to Expect

The H145 is a high-value transaction and finance is typically structured at the more sophisticated end of the aviation finance market - often involving long-term leases, structured HP backed by contracts, or sale-and-leaseback arrangements.

Typical Purchase Price

New: £7.5m–£9.0m Pre-owned: £3.0m–£5.5m

Minimum Deposit

From 25% of purchase price (c.£1.875m–£2.25m on a new aircraft)

Finance Rates Available

From 6.0% p.a. (HP / structured lease) Finance lease from 6.1% p.a.

Typical Term

Up to 12 years (HP on new) Operating lease: 7–10 year terms typical

Long-term service agreements with Airbus (HCare contracts) can be used to provide lenders with visibility of total cost of ownership, which can improve terms. We advise clients on structuring their application to make maximum use of existing contracts and operator credentials.

Worked Finance Example

Get a quote 0204 6211776

Same working day

Get terms for your own case

The figures on this page are indicative. Send us your scenario and we will come back the same working day with options from our panel of 130+ lenders.

0204 6211776

Whole of market · 130+ lenders · FCA 814533 · Same working day response

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to finance an Airbus H145?

A new Airbus H145 is priced between approximately £7.5m and £9.0m as of October 2026. Pre-owned examples are available from around £3.0m to £5.5m. With a 25% deposit on a £8.0m new aircraft, the finance amount is £6.0m. Our worked example shows approximately £58,000/month at 6.1% over 12 years.

What makes the H145 popular for air ambulance operations?

The H145 offers exceptional cabin volume, best-in-class payload for its class, five-blade quiet technology rotor reducing noise in sensitive areas, and twin-engine reliability. Its large rear clamshell doors and flat floor give paramedics the unobstructed cabin space needed for critical patient care. The H145 has become the aircraft of choice for new air ambulance procurement across Europe.

Can NHS-contracted HEMS operators finance an H145?

Yes. NHS-contracted HEMS providers operating on long-term service contracts can use those contracts to underpin lender confidence in the revenue stream, which often supports longer loan terms and lower rates. We have experience structuring H145 finance for contracted EMS operations.

What lenders offer H145 finance in the UK?

H145 finance is available from specialist aviation finance houses, international aircraft lessors, and major UK commercial banks with aviation divisions. The H145's strong Airbus backing and established resale market make it a preferred asset for aviation lenders. We identify the best lender for your specific operator profile.

Is the H145 available on operating lease?

Yes. Operating leases for the H145 are available through specialist aviation lessors and Airbus Financial Services. An operating lease keeps the asset off your balance sheet and may offer end-of-term flexibility - particularly useful for operators who want to upgrade to a newer variant at the end of a fixed period. We can explore operating lease options alongside HP and finance lease.

Helicopter Finance Air Ambulance Helicopter Finance UK Airbus H125 / AS350 Squirrel Finance Guide Airbus H135 Finance Guide Leonardo AW109 Finance Guide Leonardo AW139 Finance Guide

Finance taken for business purposes is not regulated by the FCA. Rates shown are indicative as at October 2026 and depend on credit profile, term, aircraft and deposit. We act as a credit broker, not a lender. Your aircraft may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments.