MedStar Health Introduces New Airbus H145 D3 Helicopter to Expand Critical Care Capabilities Across the Region

COLUMBIA, Md., Oct. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- MedSTAR Transport, MedStar Health's critical care transport program, is introducing a new Airbus H145 D3 helicopter to strengthen its ability to transport critically ill and injured patients across the Washington, D.C., and Maryland region. Only a few of its type are operating in the air medical industry nationwide.

Designed to better serve patients with complex medical needs during transport, the aircraft offers meaningful clinical and operational enhancements for those requiring multiple medical devices, neonatal intensive care, ECMO—a temporary heart-lung support system—or bariatric transport.

The new Airbus H145 D3 offers: A substantially larger cabin

• Larger cabin space
  Creates more usable space for patient care, equipment securement, and additional clinicians when a larger bedside team is needed in flight 
• Space for two stretchers 
  Expands flexibility in extraordinary response scenarios
• 1,000 pounds additional payload capacity
  Increases flexibility for personnel, medical equipment, fuel, and other mission requirements
• Increased fuel capacity
  Supports longer mission planning options and broader operational flexibility
• A five-blade rotor system
  Provides greater lift and a smoother ride for critically ill patients and crews performing patient care
• More powerful engines
  Support the higher weight capacity and improves performance in demanding conditions, including high heat and humidity
• Increased space for highly specialized care
  Including ECMO, neonatal intensive care, and other missions requiring multiple devices or an expanded clinical team
   

About MedSTAR Transport

MedSTAR Transport is MedStar Health's critical care transport program serving the Baltimore and greater Washington, D.C., region for more than 40 years.

Founded in 1983, the program was the first hospital-based air medical service in the Washington area and has grown into a regional transport system with air ambulances, ground ambulances, a dedicated communications center, and highly trained medical and support personnel.

MedSTAR Transport moves approximately 5,000 patients each year and specializes in interfacility critical care transport as well as selected scene response operations, including transport to Level I trauma centers.

Over four decades, the program has played a significant role in regional and national emergency response, including during major public emergencies like 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic.

MedSTAR Transport maintains commercial EMS licensure in Maryland and the District of Columbia and is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems for ground, rotor-wing, and neonatal ICU transport.

To download b-roll video of the event at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, click here.

SOURCE MedStar Health