Life Flight Network has signed a letter of intent with the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation to expand emergency air medical services across Hawaii. The agreement follows more than a year of planning by the foundation, which has secured a fully equipped Airbus H145 helicopter to support the effort.

The foundation, a volunteer-run non-profit focused on saving lives in Hawaii, collaborated with donors and consultants to source the aircraft and find the right operator. Life Flight Network was chosen based on its clinical track record, safety culture and shared commitment to serving local communities.

The Airbus H145 will be operated as a dedicated air ambulance, with a critical care team on board and a cabin configured for intensive care. Life Flight Network will also bring its air medical membership programme to the region, offering coverage for medically necessary flights and helping to limit out-of-pocket expenses for patients and families.

"We are honoured to have been selected by the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation to help strengthen Hawaii's air medical services and contribute to lives saved," says Ben Clayton, CEO at Life Flight Network. "We are excited to bring Life Flight Network's legacy of compassion and lifesaving service to the Island of Hawaii while collaborating with and learning from local healthcare providers. Together, we can ensure residents and visitors have access to critical care when every second counts."

The programme is expected to complement the work of the Hawaii Fire Department and address the needs of rural communities where distance and terrain can delay access to advanced medical care. The County of Hawaii has prioritised emergency response capacity, with both Mayor Kimo Alameida and Fire Chief Kazuo Todd welcoming the addition of the new helicopter resource.

The H145’s spacious interior and performance in challenging conditions make it well suited to the region’s demands. With a clinical crew composed of a flight nurse and paramedic, Life Flight Network will provide ICU-level care and help fulfil the joint mission of saving lives across Hawaii.