REACH Air Medical Services to run new helo in Montana

REACH Air Medical Services (REACH) has said it will place an Airbus H125 helicopter in Montana, US. The new model was purchased by REACH specifically for service in Montana because of its high-reliability rates, high-altitude performance capabilities, and safety features, the provider explained.

The new aircraft has been outfitted for use in the air medical environment and has the capacity to transport the patient and a three-person flight team. REACH said it has also equipped the aircraft with night vision goggles, autopilot systems, advanced terrain awareness warning systems, and snow pads for improved winter landing ability.

Vicky Spediacci, vice-president of aviation operations for REACH, said the organisation was confident the H125 will deliver safe and reliable service to the communities of Southern Montana.

Sean Russell, president of REACH Air Medical Services, added: “In this rural landscape, the new H125 will increase our ability to safely serve patients in their time of need. Going into winter, the ability of the snow pads and the light weight of this aircraft allow for increased likelihood of reaching patients when others cannot. We look forward to continuing to provide high quality medical care to patients and hospitals in Southern Montana.”

REACH operates two air medical bases in Montana, a helicopter base in Bozeman and a combined helicopter/plane base in Helena. Each base is staffed 24/7 with a critical care transport team consisting of a pilot, a flight nurse and a flight paramedic.