The EC 145 is a medium-heavy, twin-engined helicopter that was developed in collaboration by Eurocopter and the Japanese firm Kawasaki Heavy Industries. The BK 117C-1 was the predecessor of the new helicopter designated the type BK 117C-2 that became the EC 145 after the production line was taken over. The first machine made its maiden flight on 12th June 1999 at Donauwörth. The first machine for the Sécurité Civile was handed over in May 2001 at NŒmes in France. Compared with the BK 117, the EC 145 has a new fuselage with a roomier cabin. Advantages of the new rotor blades on the EC 145 are a considerable reduction in vibrations and a 25% increase in range. The EC 145 is approved for blind flight and can be operated by one or two pilots and at night. Its particular advantage as a rescue helicopter lies in the greatly extended range by comparison with other helicopters in the same category. The EC 145 is therefore the first choice for flying patients over long distances to special clinics. The ADAC currently operates two helicopters of this types stationed at Mainz and Senftenberg (Brandenburg).