Bulgarian HEMS aircraft delayed
Delivery of the country’s second and third AW109 air ambulances has been delayed until 2025 due to supply chain issues
The delivery of two rotorcraft to the government of Bulgaria for use in helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) has been delayed.
The two helicopters – the second and third of a batch of three AW109s ordered in 2023 – will now be delivered to the Bulgarian Health Ministry in January and February 2025.
The aircraft were previously scheduled for delivery in November and December 2024 – the second helicopter having already been delayed from its original due date in June of this year.
Manufacturer Leonardo has blamed difficulties in the global supply chain as the reason behind the sliding delivery dates.
The delays have hindered the government’s progress in establishing a nationwide air ambulance service for Bulgaria. The plans, announced last year, will eventually see the establishment of a network of six bases across the country.
The first helicopter of this batch was delivered in February.