This March edition, distributed at HAI Heli-Expo, is full to the brim with features covering a range of topics from around the world: Mario Pierobon explores the tools and training to mitigate the risks associated with having to fly near difficult-to-see wires; and also discovers what the threats are to helicopters, operators and rescued people while using a hoist and how to minimize the inherent hazards; Lauren Haigh talks to industry experts about challenges and solutions with transporting blood product; Jonathan Falconer reports on the impact of technology on aerial asset management for special operations; and he delves into the processes and procedures for the various approaches to HEMS and SAR in Aotearoa; and Mandy Langfield investigates the considerations that governments around the world have to contemplate when purchasing or contracting resources for aerial firefighting missions, the second part of this two part series will be published in our next edition, a special focusing on aerial firefighting.

Atrium Health’s MedCenter Air discuss their role as an emergency and critical care patient transport service in the US; we spoke to Thomas von Eschenbach about the way that Collins are pioneering the Modular Open Systems Approach; and other interviews include Samuel Summermatter – Flight Operation Manager and Pilot at Air Zermatt – regarding his work in the Swiss Alps, Peter Wheatley – Vice President and General Manager, Helicopters, for StandardAero – about his career and working ethos with the Canadian MRO, and Robert Atac – President for Astronautics – discussing change in the avionics industry and the scope of technology integration.

We also have articles from Theresa Degel, where she explores the utility of eVTOLs to ease pressure and improve response times for Dutch EMS, and Dr Terry Martin, who reports on the changes to the approach to aeromedical training in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.