Enloe Health FlightCare acquires new H130
California-based healthcare provider Enloe Health has unveiled a new Airbus H130 helicopter for use by its FlightCare air ambulance program
The H130 was showcased at a dedication ceremony at the Chico Air Museum in northern California. It was fitted for air medical operations by United Rotorcraft.
The helicopter cost approximately US$5.4 million, and was funded primarily through donations and philanthropic gifts. It is due to begin operations this summer.
The aircraft will join FlightCare’s existing H130. The two helicopters will be operated on a “scheduled rotation”. The program’s current backup helicopter, a 23-year-old AS350, will be retired from service.
“FlightCare is a pillar of our services, and this new addition to the fleet will fortify this essential program,” said Mike Wiltermood, Enloe Health’s President and CEO. “Knowing that our patients have access to air transportation for the most critical situations, operated by a fantastic crew of pilots, flight nurses and paramedics, provides peace of mind to many in our communities.”
“Our community has consistently supported this program, helping fund aircraft upgrades for more than two decades,” added Jolene Francis, Enloe Health’s Vice President of Philanthropy and Communications. “We are profoundly grateful for their continued support.”
Aerial firefighting firm Dauntless Air recently acquired five more aircraft of its own.
Oliver Cuenca
Oliver Cuenca was a Junior Editor at the Voyageur Group. He was previously a News and Features Journalist for the rail magazine IRJ until 2021, and studied MA Magazine Journalism at Cardiff University. His favourite helicopter is the AW169 – the workhorse of the UK air ambulance sector! He also led the creation of Waypoint: The AirMed&Rescue podcast, serving as its Production Editor and co-host.