ITIC Global 2026 | Beyond air ambulance: ground-based medical evacuation as a risk mitigation tool

The ITIJ team have been reporting from ITIC Global in Istanbul this week (1–5 November 2026), sharing the discussions that took place at the conference. Read all reports.

Shaun Boulter, Head of Strategic Client Solutions, Compass Point Assist

Boulter examined how digital technology is changing the way organisations assess and manage risks for international travellers. While digital platforms can provide valuable information and support rapid responses to incidents, he emphasised that technology must complement, rather than replace, human judgement.

The presentation outlined Compass Point Assist’s integrated approach, spanning medical coordination, crisis and risk management, and disability claims support. Its Travel Navigator app incorporates a daily updated risk map, emergency check-ins, live location tracking, secure communications, itinerary storage, and medical records, helping travellers make informed decisions and assistance teams respond effectively.

However, Boulter highlighted the risks of becoming overly reliant on digital systems. Notification fatigue can cause important alerts to be overlooked, while AI-generated information may lack local context or contain blind spots. Privacy concerns, system failures, and a false sense of security can also undermine effective travel risk management.

He advocated a balanced approach combining technology with human expertise, local knowledge, and context-specific solutions. Risk assessments should consider individual itineraries rather than relying solely on broad country-level guidance, while appropriate security advice and traveller training remain essential.

Audience discussion explored the implications of notification fatigue, with a member of the audience from Everbridge questioning whether travellers opting out of alerts could affect an organisation’s duty of care responsibilities. The discussion also considered generational differences in technology engagement and the role of insurance in funding assistance services.

Boulter further stressed that organisations should look beyond minimum legal requirements, ensuring duty of care does not become a tick-box exercise driven by fear of liability. Ultimately, effective travel risk management requires flexibility and a strong human element. Technology can improve visibility and response times, but compassion, local knowledge, and the ability to adapt to individual circumstances remain essential.

Maximilian Jankowski, CEO and Paramedic, Maxis Rettung

Jankowski examined the importance of ground-based medical evacuation in an increasingly unpredictable operating environment. While air ambulance transport remains the gold standard for medical repatriation, he argued that reliance on aviation alone could leave patients vulnerable when flights are suspended or airspace becomes inaccessible.

Airport closures following drone incidents, security threats, and natural disasters can disrupt evacuation plans with little warning. Ground transport provides an alternative, allowing medical teams to respond without depending on airport access or flight availability. It can also support continuity of medical care through specialised equipment, live patient information, and coordination with receiving hospitals.

The priority must always be determining which combination of transport and medical resources offers the safest outcome for the patient

Jankowski also highlighted the importance of discretion during sensitive transfers, particularly where media attention could compromise patient privacy or security. The case of Carolina Wilga, who was found after spending 12 days missing in the Australian outback, illustrated these challenges. Her subsequent transfer to Germany involved police coordination and measures to protect her privacy.

Audience questions explored the practicalities of ground transfers across Europe and whether they offer a viable alternative when aviation is unavailable. Jankowski explained that the approach depends on individual circumstances, with speed and preparedness essential to identifying the most appropriate solution. He emphasised that the priority must always be determining which combination of transport and medical resources offers the safest outcome for the patient.

The discussion concluded with a focus on preparation. Boulter highlighted the importance of understanding the destination environment, keeping up to date with travel advice, knowing who to contact for assistance, and carrying essential items appropriately. Jankowski agreed, stressing that preparation reduces patient stress and improves the effectiveness of assistance providers.

Ultimately the session demonstrated that resilient medical evacuation depends on flexibility, forward planning, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Air and ground transport should be viewed as complementary capabilities, allowing assistance providers to develop safer, more responsive solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.