Lisbon, Portugal – 8 August 2025: Avincis, Europe’s leading provider of emergency aerial services, has deployed a helicopter to reinforce Catalonia’s search and rescue (SAR) and wildfire response operations. Currently providing services in 13 out of the 17 autonomous regions in Spain, the addition of this deployment will increase Avincis’ presence in this important market.

The aircraft, an Airbus H145, is based at Sabadell Airport and stationed at the Catalonia Government Fire Service’s hangar (Bomberos de la Generalitat de Catalunya).

Avincis will provide a winch system and onboard medical and rescue equipment as well as the helicopter and pilots, who will work alongside two rescue firefighters from the GRAE unit, a flight operator and a physician, all provided by the regional government (Generalitat de Catalunya).

The aircraft, will play a multi-functional role during its assignment with the fire service. Its mission scope will include search and rescue operations, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas, as well as wildfire surveillance and coordination. The helicopter will also support other civil protection tasks as required.

This marks the first time this model is used for SAR (Search and Rescue) operations on land in Catalonia, representing a significant operational milestone. Known for its versatility and ability to perform under demanding conditions, the H145 is a key asset in high-stakes emergency scenarios.

“For almost six decades, Avincis has proudly served the communities of Iberia with an unwavering commitment to saving lives and protecting communities,” said Rubén García Medina, Avincis Managing Director Iberia. “The continued trust placed in us by central and regional governments is testament to the reliability and dedication of our teams, and the strength of our multi-mission capabilities. We are proud to support Catalonia’s emergency services during this critical period, ensuring continuity of vital operations when they are needed most.”

Since 2022, Avincis has carried out more than 31,000 missions in Spain. The company operates a fleet of around 120 aircraft nationwide, staffed by a team of approximately 1,200 professionals. Its services span multiple autonomous regions and include search and rescue, medical emergencies, firefighting, civil protection, and offshore transport.

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ABOUT AVINCIS

As the largest provider of emergency aerial services in Europe – with additional operations in Africa and South America – Avincis’ areas of focus are helicopter emergency medical services, air ambulance services, search and rescue, aerial firefighting, as well as dedicated emergency aerial transport for offshore energy. Operating from more than 180 bases across Spain, Portugal, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Greece, Mozambique and Chile, the company oversees operations from its headquarters in Lisboa, Portugal. With a fleet of approximately 205 aircraft (helicopters ~165 and aeroplanes ~40), Avincis counts on a team of more than 2,400 talented professionals, including experienced pilots, crews, technicians, and support teams to deliver its unique service. With more than six decades of experience in the sector, Avincis has been instrumental in saving lives and protecting communities in some of the most challenging and remote environments on earth.