Air Methods has signed an agreement to provide fixed wing, turboprop service for Airlift Northwest's bases throughout the Pacific Northwest beginning in 2023. Air Methods will provide three additional Part 135 certificate and aircraft services to UW Medicine's Airlift Northwest air medical transport programme.

“Partnering with Air Methods on our turboprop operations will allow Airlift Northwest/UW Medicine to provide the very best in aircraft safety, the latest in aviation technology and critical care 24/7 wherever it is needed,” says Airlift Northwest executive director Jeff Richey. “Together we will be able to work collaboratively and deliver quality aeromedical care to residents of the Pacific Northwest region.”

Airlift Northwest, a not-for-profit entity of UW Medicine, is dedicated to providing safe and efficient air medical care to critically ill and injured infants, children and adults while transporting them to hospital facilities that can provide comprehensive care. For more than 20 years, Air Methods and UW Medicine have collaborated to serve communities in the region.

“Air Methods is proud to continue the strong relationship with such a respected partner as UW Medicine to provide fixed wing emergency air medical services through Airlift Northwest, and we are excited to expand our team serving communities throughout the state of Washington,” says Air Methods senior vice president of customer experience Ed Brouse. “These aircraft will make it possible for residents, particularly those in rural areas, to get access to the care they desperately need, as quickly as possible.”

Currently, Air Methods operates Airlift Northwest's rotary wing services at its six locations in the Pacific Northwest, providing helicopter aircraft, pilots and mechanics.