LifeFlight expands into Singapore

The expansion was made possible after LifeFlight Australia was awarded a contract for the provision of aeromedical services for a large multi-national corporation, working on projects throughout Asia.

Peter Elliott, LifeFlight Coordination Centre Executive Manager, said: "The expansion into Singapore is a big success for the jet Air Ambulance fleet and for LifeFlight. The new base will increase our reach for these services across the South Pacific and Asian regions, connecting with our Singapore base through to the Middle East and beyond."

Two aircraft will be permanently based overseas

As an approved service provider, LifeFlight has also been awarded an adhoc contract with another international client, to support their extensive operations and staff in countries within the region. Two of LifeFlight's Challenger 604 aircraft will be permanently based overseas and will also be available for other missions. The jets will be crewed with a Captain and First Officer, with the ability to take a third crew member for longer flights, along with a Critical Care Doctor and Flight Nurse.

"If you're overseas and are injured or unwell, your travel insurance provider may nominate one of the LifeFlight Air Ambulance jets to bring you home," Elliott said.

LifeFlight had previously established itself in Singapore, from early 2017 to 2018, but due demand within Australia, was forced to temporarily rein in its international service, closing the base but still performing overseas missions from its Australian facilities. 

LifeFlight will continue its work in Australia

Back on home soil, LifeFlight Australia will continue its vital work throughout Queensland, transferring patients - many of whom are critically ill or injured - to major centers, where they can access expertise that may not be available in smaller communities.

Elliott concluded: "LifeFlight's Air Ambulances will always be there for Queenslanders, to get them to higher levels of health care, when they need it most.”

In the summer, three retired Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Challenger 604 jets joined RACQ LifeFlight Rescue.