Norfolk, UK-based aerospace engineers Cobalt Aerospace have been selected by global aerospace company GVH Aerospace to manufacture its pioneering AeroStretcher Mk IV system for COVID-19 medical transfers, with the new production batches destined for transporting patients in the UK.

Designed to rapidly transform helicopters and fixed wing aircraft from a passenger configuration into an air ambulance configuration in minutes, the AeroStretcher Mk IV system allows aeromedical operators to offer the optimum level of care to patients, without permanent modification to the aircraft.

With the AeroStretcher Mk IV system, compatible aircraft that are not configured for medical use can be rapidly transformed into air ambulances that provide a tailorable level of care.

Cobalt Aerospace co-founder and director, Ben Brown commented: “We have worked with GVH Aerospace before on the manufacture of their AeroStretcher Mk IV aeromedical equipment, and we are thrilled to be selected by them again for such a timely and important project.

“Our hope is that civil aircraft that would otherwise be grounded during this time may be able to easily, reversibly convert their cabins into aeromedical transportation facilities and help to ease the pressure on our emergency transportation services.”

The medical situation around the COVID-19 pandemic is constantly changing, and a major concern during this time is the ability of medical facilities to cope with such a large influx of patients. Airborne emergency services are a vital asset during this time, but they also are becoming quickly overstretched.

GVH Aerospace's innovative design requires no permanent modification to the aircraft, and only the seats need to be removed to clear the cabin ready for the equipment. The system can be installed in minutes.

The AeroStretcher Mk IV system is flexible and available in a variety of configurations with a range of add-ons to suit varying levels of medical need, meaning any suitable aircraft cabin can be configured to support UK medical staff to collect and treat people efficiently.