US Upper Midwest not-for-profit Life Link III has been unanimously approved by the Duluth Airport Authority Board (DAA) for a proposed development agreement and lease terms for a new base location at the Duluth International airport in Minnesota. This milestone marks a significant investment in the Arrowhead region and surrounding communities, strengthening Life Link III's ability to deliver high-quality air medical transport services.

The approved agreement includes a 15-year lease and the construction of a modern hangar facility, purpose-built to support both rotor wing and fixed wing aircraft operations. The facility will also feature indoor patient transfer capabilities, offering a safe, climate-controlled environment for patients, flight crews and aircraft.

“We are thrilled to move forward with this important project in partnership with the DAA,” says Carolyn India-Black, vice president of business operations at Life Link III. “This new facility represents our deep commitment to the Arrowhead region, enhancing our ability to deliver exceptional care and rapid critical care transport when and where it's needed most.”

“The establishment of this new base represents a significant strategic investment, not only on our airfield, but in critical services that support our entire region. We're proud to partner with a company that provides emergency support to people when they need assistance the most,” adds Tom Werner, executive director of the DAA.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2025, with project completion anticipated in late 2025 or early 2026. Life Link III extends its sincere appreciation to the DAA, Life Link III board of directors and leaders from Essentia Health and Aspirus St. Luke's for their collaboration and unwavering support in making this initiative a reality.

Life Link III is a non-profit consortium of ten leading healthcare systems throughout the US Upper Midwest. Established in 1985, it was one of the first non-profit consortiums in the country dedicated to transporting critically ill patients by helicopter. The organisation is recognised for its safe operations, clinical operations and leadership excellence in advancing air medical technology. Life Link III also serves as the exclusive air medical transport provider for five neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) teams across Minnesota and Wisconsin.