Used for Search and Rescue duties on the most remote and isolated areas of the country, transporting medical emergency patients. First commissioned to private enterprise, operating under the National Centre for Emergency Care (
EKAB ). The early service of these helicopters was marked by three accidents and the equivalent loss of helicopters, from the total of a fleet of five. After these incidents, the remaining helicopters were integrated to the 358 Search and Rescue Squadron since May 2003. At the same time, one more helicopter was added to the fleet. Since November 2004, the SEAB (Medical Emergency Helicopter Unit) is organized as an independent flight with 3 A-109E helicopters.
SX-HDQ: EKAB; to air force 