The Eurocopter EC145 offers plenty of space for patient, doctor, pilot and paramedics, has a long range and a powerful rescue winch. The EC 145 is the fully upgraded successor to the familiar BK117 and EC135. As a first step towards the replacement of the REGA helicopter fleet, in 2003 the lowland bases at Basel, Bern, Lausanne and Zürich were equipped with a Eurocopter 145. Today the fleet consists of 5 type EC145 helicopters and 8 type A 109 K2, including one Eurocopter and two Agustas in reserve. By the end of 2009 the remaining Agustas will also have been replaced. The REGA Swiss emergency service is the largest air rescue organisation in Switzerland. 13 helicopter bases are distributed throughout Switzerland so that under good flying conditions points of accident (except: Wallis Canton) can be reached in 15 minutes flying time.