Airmedic introduces dedicated critical care cabin for Learjet 45XR fleet
A redesigned medical interior aims to improve crew access, patient handling, and in-flight clinical care during air ambulance missions
Canadian air ambulance operator Airmedic has introduced a new dedicated medical cabin aboard its Bombardier Learjet 45XR aircraft as part of a wider program to enhance its critical care transport capability.
The redesigned cabin has already entered service on one Learjet 45XR and is intended to support both domestic and international patient transfer missions. A second aircraft is scheduled to receive the same configuration in the coming months.
According to Airmedic, the permanent medical interior was developed using operational feedback from flight crews and clinicians and was certified by both the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transport Canada through a supplemental type certification process.
The upgraded cabin incorporates a LifePort stretcher system, dedicated medical equipment storage, overhead mounting rails for critical care devices, and expanded loading clearance designed to accommodate a wider range of patient transport requirements, including bariatric patients and neonatal incubators.
A satellite communications and flight-tracking system has also been integrated into the aircraft, enabling crews to communicate with physicians during flight while continuing patient care activities.
Louis-Philippe Loiselle Fortier, Vice-President of Strategic Initiatives and Business Development at Airmedic, said: “By analyzing how missions actually unfold, we designed a cabin that removes obstacles for our crews, strengthens clinical continuity, and provides a safer, more comfortable, and better-controlled environment for patients.”
The modifications form part of a broader fleet investment program centered on Airmedic’s two Bombardier Learjet 45XR aircraft, which are used primarily for long-range medical repatriation and critical care transport missions.
In addition to international air ambulance operations, the aircraft are also used for urgent interhospital transfers within Quebec. Airmedic’s fixed-wing fleet includes six Pilatus PC-12 NG aircraft.