Life-Guard | July 05, 2026 | Roanoke, VA
Carilion Clinic Life-Guard’s newest H135 helicopter (N223WL) arrived in Roanoke on July 2, 2026. This aircraft joins N224VV and N225LX, both arriving within the last two months.
These three advanced Airbus EC135P3 aircraft replace an aging fleet of EC135P2+ models:
N135WL (2012)
N135VV (2011)
N135LX (2011)
Celebrating 45 Years of Service
This fleet renewal coincides with Life-Guard’s 45th anniversary. Operated in partnership with Metro Aviation, the program has evolved through several generations of aircraft to meet regional needs:
Bell 206 (original launch aircraft)
Bell 222
Bell 412
EC145
EC135 (legacy aircraft being replaced)
An industry leader, Life-Guard was named the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS) Program of the Year in 2018. This honor recognizes the program’s enduring commitment to safety, patient outcomes, and innovative crew training.
Photo from Life-Guard social media.