Experienced aviator Jeremy Ovens has become head of flight operations at Australian aeromedical provider LifeFlight after spending five years abroad as an instructor for the Dubai Police Airwing. Ovens brings more than 30 years of SAR and EMS experience, from many diverse and challenging roles in the aviation industry.

He previously worked for LifeFlight when it was known as CareFlight across several roles as chief pilot, head of training and checking, general manager of training and head of operations at LifeFlight Training Academy. His work included launching the AW139 simulator and training pilots to use the aircraft.

During his time in Dubai, Ovens trained crews in the latest SAR and winching techniques and successfully improved SAR capabilities to International Civil Aviation Organisation standards.

He said the decision to return to Australia and LifeFlight was exciting. “I knew I was going to return to Australia one day, and when I saw the advert, I spoke to my wife and we decided it was time,” he explains. “I am looking forward to seeing my old colleagues again and meeting many new ones. My whole aviation career has been SAR and EMS. Everyone in LifeFlight is working for one person, the patient lying in the back of the aircraft or the person hanging on the end of the winch being rescued. What I enjoy the most about my job is making a difference for people who need our help.”

LifeFlight chief operating officer Lee Schofield, says Ovens' appointment is a gain for the aeromedical organisation. “As LifeFlight continues to expand to meet the growing demand for our services, Jeremy's extensive aviation experience and vast knowledge will be an incredible asset to us, as the new head of flight operations. Jeremy is familiar with the business and is passionate about the vital work we do across Queensland.”

Ovens will commence work on 11 November 2024 following regulatory approvals.

LifeFlight employs around 500 highly skilled critical care doctors, nurses, paramedics, engineers, aviation and medical training experts, coordination specialists and administrators.

LifeFlight's fleet of four Challenger air ambulance jets and nine rotary wing aircraft operates from eight bases across Queensland and Singapore, and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, directly servicing an area of 1.85 million square kilometres. LifeFlight also supports search and rescue efforts across 53 million square kilometres of land and sea for the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. Since taking to the skies 45 years ago LifeFlight has helped close to 90,000 people.