Achieving the highest standards

How difficult is the current climate in the air ambulance industry?

The current climate presents a range of challenges, from rising operational costs and regulatory complexities to the increasing demand for rapid, high-quality services in diverse and often remote locations. Regional wars cause operational difficulties and cost increases in the sector. Furthermore, in aviation, there have recently been problems in the supply of aircraft parts around the world.

These challenges require adaptability, precision, and an unwavering commitment to safety and patient care. However, as Redstar Aviation, we continue our operations on a global scale by overcoming these obstacles with the expertise and experience gained over the years in the sector, together with our ability to operate in war and conflict zones and our large stock of spare parts in our inventory.

Do clients understand when you have to pass on some costs to them?

Clients generally understand when we have to pass on some costs, particularly when we communicate transparently about the reasons behind these adjustments. The recent price fluctuations in ground handling services at airports and fuel costs worldwide are unavoidable, and as a result, they must be reflected in the pricing. We pride ourselves on being one of the rare air ambulance operators with the capability to safely operate in highly challenging regions, such as war zones and conflict zones. However, flights to these areas often require additional insurance coverage due to the heightened risks involved. These added insurance costs are an essential part of ensuring the safety and security of both our crew and patients, and we make sure that our clients are well-informed about the necessity of these charges.

These challenges require adaptability, precision, and an unwavering commitment to safety and patient care

Why is it so important to keep investing in aircraft, training and equipment?

It’s essential for maintaining the highest standards of safety, reliability and quality in the air ambulance industry. As the needs of our clients evolve and the challenges in the sector become increasingly complex, continuous investment ensures that we remain at the forefront of operational capability in the international market. We are Turkey's one and only globally accredited Air-Medical Operator and winner of the Air Ambulance Company of the Year Award.

Our expanding fleet of aircraft dedicated solely to air ambulance missions is crucial for providing swift, efficient, and safe transportation, especially in remote or high-risk areas. Equally important is the ongoing training of our medical and flight crews, ensuring they are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to respond to a wide range of critical situations. Investing in state-of-the-art medical equipment allows us to offer the best possible care during transport, enhancing patient outcomes. A cutting-edge fleet, outfitted with top-tier medical equipment and designed for multi-patient transport, empowers our medical team to deliver advanced monitoring and continuous lifesaving care during medevac flights.

Tell us about any latest additions to your fleet, and why you chose certain aircraft

We operate an extensive fleet, consisting of four Bombardier Challenger 605s alongside five Learjet 45 XRs dedicated to air ambulance missions, as well as six Leonardo AW139s. In 2024 we welcomed the fourth Challenger 605, TC-RSI, to our growing fleet. This remarkable addition not only underscores the increasing demand from clients, but also marks another significant milestone in the expansion of our capabilities.

The addition of our Challenger 605 TC-RSI is a direct response to the rising volume of client requests and the need for specialised technical specifications.

With its eight-hour non-stop flight capability, the ability to carry up to three patients at the same time, and the ability to accommodate up to six companions as well as the medical team, the Challenger 605 is an ideal aircraft for intercontinental medical transfers and large groups.

With the new Challenger, TC-RSI, we are excited to offer more availability for missions – either as a single or multiple patient transport. This enhancement allows us to provide flexible and efficient solutions for all of our global clients, ensuring that our clients dispatch their missions in a timely and cost-efficient manner.