Life Flight Network, the nation’s largest not-for-profit air ambulance provider, will add 12 Bell 407GXi helicopters to its air medical fleet.
Delivery of the aircraft will begin in May 2022 and bring the total number of Life Flight-operated Bell 407GX series helicopters to 17. The network also operates a host of other helicopters and airplanes throughout its service area.
Life Flight Network offers ICU-level care during air transport across the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain West. Headquartered in Aurora, it’s owned by a consortium of Legacy Health, Oregon Health and Science University, Providence Health and Services, and Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center.
It also maintains its own FAA Part 135 Operating Certificate. The addition of these helicopters will allow the program to continue to strategically position its bases to serve rural communities.
“Life Flight Network is excited to add more Bell 407GXi helicopters to our fleet. The aircraft’s proven reliability and enhanced safety features enable us to be continuously at the ready and meet our mission of saving lives with industry leading care and transport.” interim CEO Ben Clayton said.
With a range of over 400 miles and an airspeed of 161 miles per hour, the Bell 407GXi can quickly transport patients to a higher level of care. The aircraft also has a power-to-weight ratio that provides for excellent performance at higher altitudes. Also enhancing the transport environment are the aircraft’s large bi-fold side door for ease and speed of patient loading and a three-axis autopilot. Additionally, all 12 aircraft will come certified for Instrument Flight Rules, which allow for a greater margin of safety and additional operational capabilities.
Each Bell 407GXi will be equipped with a Spectrum Aeromed medical interior which provides for equipment necessary for ICU-level care provided in transport. These aircraft are staffed with a certified flight-registered nurse and a certified flight paramedic.
Critical care services can include mechanical ventilation, cardiac monitoring, maintenance of hemodynamic intravenous infusions and the administration of blood products.
“Bell is proud to provide Life Flight Network with the most capable and technologically advanced aircraft on the market,” said Jay Ortiz, vice president, Commercial Business, Americas. “The Bell 407GXi with IFR capabilities will ensure Life Flight Network’s critical response team is able to perform their mission in any environment.”
For more information, visit http://www.lifeflight.org.