A one-stop solution

Can you explain the core concept of Malteser Aeromedical and how it differentiates itself in the aeromedical transport sector?

Malteser Aeromedical, a division of Malteser International, operates within the global humanitarian aid framework, renowned for its extensive involvement in international programmes such as famine relief and disaster management under the United Nations. In Germany, Malteser International oversees a robust humanitarian aid programme supported by over 1.4 million members, who benefit from global repatriation coverage through membership contributions.

Since the 1980s, Malteser International has facilitated international patient transport, utilising air ambulance services provided by its partner, QuickAir, from its headquarters at Cologne Bonn Airport since 1992. Additionally, Malteser Aeromedical has offered its services directly to insurance companies, corporate
clients, and assistance organisations for over 25 years. Today, Malteser Aeromedical conducts more than 600 international air ambulance missions and 1,400 commercial medical escorts annually.

Malteser Aeromedical offers a one-stop solution for assistance, air ambulance, and commercial escorts. What are the key advantages of this integrated approach for clients and partners?

This service was initially developed to support our members using our own resources, however, over time, the assistance services offered to clients have significantly surpassed those available to our members. Major German insurers either utilise the complete suite of Malteser Assistance services or engage specific components tailored to their needs. Leveraging the expertise and rapid response capabilities of our teams, every client reaps the benefits of our extensive across all service areas. 

Our daily operations in patient transport include bed reservations, ground and air patient transport, and medical consultations as essential ancillary services. In each case, we reassess the transport capabilities identified by
the client and provide recommendations that can lead to more cost-effective solutions or enhancements for the patient.

How does operating out of Cologne Airport, with your own hangar, aircraft and medical facilities, enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your services?

We have been partnering with QuickAir to operate out of Cologne Bonn Airport for over 30 years now. This location houses all the essential facilities for our air ambulance services. With a dedicated fleet of ten aircraft,
state-of-the-art storage for medical equipment, a disinfection unit, and a training area, our base at Cologne Bonn Airport site serves as the central hub for our operations. All flight preparations and follow-up activities are conducted within the hangar and adjacent areas. For emergency take-offs, we can ensure readiness to depart within two hours. Additionally, QuickAir's maintenance facility is situated on-site, allowing for immediate and efficient service of our aircraft.

Today, Malteser Aeromedical conducts more than 600 international air ambulance missions and 1,400 commercial medical escorts annually

Over the last five years, what significant changes have you observed in the aeromedical transport market, and how has Malteser Aeromedical adapted to these changes?

Recent global crises, including the pandemic, inflation, climate change, conflicts, disasters, and terrorist attacks, have all influenced our daily operations. In response, we have implemented new structures in recent months and years to reassess situations daily and ensure our ability to react swiftly to evolving circumstances.

Looking ahead, what are the strategic priorities for Malteser Aeromedical in the coming years, and how do you plan to further innovate within the aeromedical transport space?

We take pride in delivering patient transport services at the highest medical standards while
prioritising patient safety for all our employees. As we face rising costs and concerns about our CO2 footprint, minimising empty flights and effectively pairing missions and patients will remain crucial. To support this, we have developed our own software tool designed to optimise patient pairings. In addition, expanding our customer base will be essential to further enhance our capabilities in this area. We certainly look forward to the years to come.