Life Flight Network, the USA's largest not-for-profit air ambulance provider, is adding 12 Bell 407GXi helicopters to its air medical fleet. Delivery of the aircraft will begin in May 2022 and will bring the total number of Bell 407GX series helicopters operated by Life Flight Network to 17. LFN also operates a host of other helicopters and aircraft throughout its service area.

The addition of these IFR-certified Bell 407GXi helicopters will allow the programme to continue to strategically position its bases to serve rural communities throughout the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain West.

“We are excited to add more Bell 407GXi helicopters to our fleet. The aircraft's proven reliability and enhanced safety features enable us to be continuously at the ready and meet our mission of saving lives with industry leading care and transport,” says interim CEO Ben Clayton.

With a range of over 400 miles and an airspeed of 161 miles per hour, the Bell 407GXi is able to quickly transport patients to a higher level of care when they need it most. The aircraft also has a power-to-weight ratio that provides for excellent performance at the higher altitudes within Life Flight Network's service area. Also enhancing the transport environment are the aircraft's large bi-fold side door for ease and speed of patient loading and a three-axis autopilot that contributes to improved safety. Additionally, all 12 aircraft will come certified for IFR, which allows for a greater margin of safety and additional operational capabilities.

Each Bell 407GXi will be equipped with a Spectrum Aeromed medical interior, which provides for equipment necessary for ICU-level care provided in transport. These aircraft are staffed with a certified flight registered nurse and a certified flight paramedic who possess the experience and training that enables them to provide an advanced scope of practice to their patients. Critical care services can include mechanical ventilation, cardiac monitoring, maintenance of haemodynamic intravenous infusions and the administration of blood products.

“Bell is proud to provide Life Flight Network with the most capable and technologically advanced aircraft on the market,” said Jay Ortiz, vice president, commercial business, Americas. “The Bell 407GXi with IFR capabilities will ensure Life Flight Network's critical response team is able to perform their mission in any environment.”

For more than 43 years, Life Flight Network has provided ICU-level care to patients in need of emergency medical transport. Throughout Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and Montana, the company has 25 rotor-wing bases, nine fixed-wing bases and two neonatal and paediatric bases, and operates 30 ground ambulances.