Press Release

Issued by .

April 3, 2014

Following a recent increase in the number of requests for repatriations from Kathmandu in Nepal, AirMed has taken the decision to invest in additional flight crew training and gain approval for operations into this complex airfield.

“We are constantly communicating with our clients to find ways in which we can enhance our service” says Jane Topliss, director for business development. “With the increasing ease of access to the Himalayas and the growing popularity of travel to that area, it has become clear that our clients have a developing need for air ambulance capabilities in and out of Kathmandu, especially as it is known that the healthcare facilities in this region are limited.” 

Kathmandu is a complex airport to operate from because of the difficult terrain and high altitude. Due to this all flight crews have to have specific training on the air traffic procedures at the airport prior to them being approved to be able to operate there. This is an annual training and approval requirement which is being integrated into AirMed's standard flight crew training programme.

Two of AirMed's Learjet 35A flight crews have already gained the approval with the remaining pilots scheduled to complete it during their next recurrent 6 monthly simulator training in the U.S.

“During the last few years AirMed has gained considerable experience in longer distance air ambulance missions. Last year we repatriated patients from as far afield as Uruguay and Brunei and by providing this additional capability we are ensuring our clients are not only being provided with the highest quality of care for their patients, but also a service which covers the majority of geographical regions.” Adds Jane; “We never stand still, we are continually developing in terms of what solutions we can provide to our clients and ultimately to our patients”.