Hatzolah Air to pilot VTOL aircraft for EMS services

In addition, Hatzolah Air will become Urban Aeronautics’ official sales representative and distribution channel to other EMS and rescue organizations worldwide. The companies previously signed an MOU to develop, produce, and market the CityHawk aircraft for EMS applications.

“Hatzolah’s pre-order of four air ambulance CityHawks is an amazing show of confidence in our program and in our company,” said Nimrod Golan-Yanay, CEO of Urban Aeronautics. “We look forward to delivering on our promise to revolutionize urban air mobility and the emergency response capabilities of major cities across the world.”

Optimal for urban transportation

CityHawk is a lightweight twin-engine VTOL (vertical take-off and landing aircraft), with a uniquely compact footprint that can be optimized for urban transportation or emergency response. It will utilize jet propulsion, with cabins that are 20-to-30-per-cent larger and much quieter than comparable helicopters. The aircraft is planned to complete its development and FAA certification for EMS use and be ready for production within three to five years.

Hatzolah Air is a charitable organization that provides rescue flights for patients and those in need. Hatzolah Air currently operates fixed-wing aircraft for Hatzolah’s urgent and emergent missions and is excited to pioneer the VTOL alternative to ground-based ambulances in densely populated urban settings globally.

Tailoring the ambulance to specific needs

Urban Aeronautics’ engineers are working closely with Hatzolah’s experts to tailor the CityHawk flying ambulance to their operational requirements. It will accommodate a pilot, a patient plus companion, two EMS personnel, and a complete suite of onboard life support equipment. 

“We are excited to become not just the worldwide distributor of Urban Aeronautics’ Air Ambulance CityHawk, but its first customer as well,” said Eli Rowe, President of Hatzolah Air. “Hatzolah’s mission is always about patient care, and adding the VTOL CityHawk has the potential to save many thousands of lives every year.”

US-based Hatzolah Air and Urban Aeronautics signed a memorandum of understanding to design, develop and produce the new compact medical aircraft for use in urban landscapes in August 2020.