Air ambulance fleet choices

An air ambulance service is a specialised transportation service aimed at providing rapid patient transfer by air in a medical emergency, extracting patients from remote areas, facilitating an interhospital transfer, or repatriating patients back to their home countries over long distances. 

The use of an air ambulance service can make a significant difference in the outcome for patients with critical health conditions, in disasters, or when specialised care is required that is not available nearby. It is an essential aspect of modern emergency medical services.

The most expensive component for an air ambulance company is the cost of the aviation operations, including aircraft acquisition or lease, maintenance and fuel, aircrew salaries and training, aviation insurance, etc. In order to ensure that the aircraft used for air ambulance services meet the specific operational requirements, some key factors need to be considered.

Mission range

The distance that the air ambulance aircraft will need to cover determines the suitability of a specific aircraft type. While short-range missions might be served by helicopters, mid- and longer-range flights will need fixed-wing aircraft. Depending on the distance of the aeromedical transport, airplanes with greater range, faster cruising speeds and higher altitude capabilities may be preferred as they reduce the number of refuelling stops, the overall travel time, and may offer smoother flights above turbulent weather. 

Cabin configuration

The chosen aircraft must have a cabin that can be medically configured to the necessary specifications, including the installation of a regulated stretcher system. Medical personnel must have sufficient space to operate, with good access to the patient, the medical equipment and monitoring devices.

The most expensive component for an air ambulance company
is the cost of the aviation operations

Patient capacity

Aircraft vary in size and capacity. The choice will also depend on whether the focus is on individual patient transport or the capability to handle multiple patients. Where multiple patients are to be moved simultaneously, extra stretchers or seats and additional medical staff with equipment may be required. 

Runway requirements

Some aircraft, in particular jet aircraft, require longer runways with smooth tarmac surfaces, while others are designed for short takeoff and landing and can operate in more confined, remote or rugged terrains. 

Reliability and maintenance

Having an aircraft on ground for technical or maintenance reasons poses an inevitable financial burden on every air ambulance operator. Reliable access to a certified, type-rated aircraft maintenance facility that can service the operator’s aircraft fleet locally, with a good global network for parts and maintenance support, can minimise downtime and improve consistent service availability. 

Cost efficiency

Aircraft are the cornerstone of any air ambulance service. They are also the most expensive component. The capital investment and the operating costs for different aircraft types vary greatly. It is important to evaluate the trade-offs between the cost of the aircraft, its fuel efficiency, maintenance and operational benefits, as well as having the suitable aircraft for the company’s mission and business profile.

Depending on location, operational needs, geographical coverage, types of missions and financial factors, an air ambulance company may own and or operate a varied fleet of aircraft or one uniform aircraft type. Both approaches have benefits and drawbacks.