Decline in Helicopter Deployments in Hesse: A Reflection of Nationwide Trend
Hesse, Germany – The two Hessian civil protection helicopters, "Christoph 2" and "Christoph 7," recorded a decrease in deployments in 2024 compared to the previous year, 2023.
Christoph 2 and Christoph 7
According to data from the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK), "Christoph 2," stationed in Frankfurt, conducted 868 missions in 2024, 119 fewer than in 2023. "Christoph 7," based in Kassel, flew 1,156 missions, a reduction of 122 from the previous year. Combined, the two helicopters averaged nearly six daily deployments.
The decrease in deployments in Hesse mirrors a nationwide trend attributed to expanded treatment authority for paramedics, in addition to weather-related disruptions and natural fluctuations.
The most common mission types for these helicopters were primary transport of emergency patients and primary deployment of emergency physicians and paramedics to incident locations.
Other Helicopter Services in Hesse
Hesse also has two helicopters operated by Johanniter Luftrettung. These aircraft also experienced a slight decline in deployments during 2024. "Christoph Gießen," an intensive transport helicopter, conducted 956 missions, 11 fewer than in 2023. "Christoph Mittelhessen," based at Reichelsheim Airport, performed 527 deployments, three less than the previous year.
Police Helicopter Deployments
The police conducted fewer helicopter missions in 2024 than in 2023. According to the Hessian Police Headquarters, there were over 2,100 flights for crime prevention and law enforcement purposes.
"The most common mission reasons are searches for missing persons and pursuit operations," the statement added.
All three helicopters of the Hessian police aviation squadron are stationed at Egelsbach Airport, south of Frankfurt. The squad employs around 60 personnel, from pilots to aviation technicians.
Reasons for Decline
The decline in deployments is primarily due to the expanded treatment authority granted to paramedics, which has reduced the need for helicopter transport in some cases. Favorable weather conditions in 2024 also contributed to the decrease in missions.
It’s important to note that despite the decline, the helicopter services in Hesse remain essential components of the emergency response system, providing critical medical transport, search and rescue, and law enforcement support.
Conclusion
The reduction in helicopter deployments in Hesse demonstrates the effectiveness of expanded treatment authority for paramedics and the role of favorable weather conditions in influencing mission frequency. However, the helicopter services continue to play a vital role in ensuring the health and safety of the Hessian population.
