Air Methods expands Kentucky network with seventh air ambulance base

Air Methods has expanded its Kentucky air medical network with the opening of a new base at Russell County Airport, strengthening emergency helicopter coverage across south central Kentucky.

Designated Kentucky 15, the base joins six other Air Methods of Kentucky aircraft to provide rapid access to critical care throughout the US region.

“It’s always a proud day when we open a new base,” said Air Methods Senior Account Executive Brian Carpenter. “This is a tremendous opportunity for us to expand our service area while continuing to provide the lifesaving care that our partners and their patients have come to expect.”

The new base operates an Airbus EC130 helicopter equipped as a flying intensive care unit, carrying advanced medical equipment, medications, and whole blood for patients experiencing severe blood loss.

Staffed by Air Methods pilots, clinicians, and mechanics, the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS), meeting industry standards for safety, clinical practice, and training.

The EC130 aircraft has transferred from the company’s Somerset base, while Somerset’s Kentucky 3 operation now flies an EC130 T2 relocated from New York.

“Having a strong ecosystem of aircraft and clinicians allows us to provide our partners and patients with industry-leading care... With just one call, we will be there no matter how big of an ask,” Carpenter added.

Air Methods recently announced the opening of Native Air 23 in Arizona, a new emergency air medical base for its subsidiary Native Air.