Greece’s Ministry of Health and the National Center for Emergency Care (EKAV), as part of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Global Health Initiative (GHI), have taken delivery of a Beechcraft King Air 360C aircraft from Textron Aviation. The versatile turboprop, equipped with a cargo door and an air-medical system, will further ensure that patients receive urgent air transport from remote areas to central locations in Greece and Europe.

“The King Air 360C will significantly boost Greece's ability to provide emergency medical care, ensuring that patients receive immediate and reliable air transport from remote areas to central locations in Greece and Europe,” says Bob Gibbs, vice president, special mission sales. “The aircraft is equipped with the latest medical equipment and is ready to serve in diverse and remote locations.”

This delivery is part of the SNF’s GHI, which has funded five aircraft for EKAV, including two Beechcraft King Air 350C airplanes and this new King Air 360C aimed at strengthening Greece’s air ambulance services. All three aircraft are operated out of Elefsis Airbase in Greece.

The air ambulance conversion was completed by Fargo Jet Center at its special mission aircraft modification centre located at Hector International Airport in Fargo, North Dakota.

“At Fargo Jet Center, we take pride in delivering mission-ready aircraft tailored to the unique requirements of each operator,” explains Darren Hall, vice president, business development, Fargo Jet Center. “For this King Air 360C, our team worked closely with the customer and Spectrum Aeromed to integrate advanced medical systems and develop a custom interior that enhances patient care and crew efficiency. This aircraft represents the highest standards of reliability and innovation in air medical transport.”

“As the nationwide public ambulance service in Greece, EKAB is celebrating its 40 years of service,” says Dr. Demetrios Pyrros, director of medical services for EKAB. “This additional aircraft will enhance our capacity to serve the Greek citizens, as well as the more than 30 million annual visitors who may need emergency medical transport. The generosity of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation makes this possible, and we are looking forward to putting it in operational use with the support of the Hellenic Air Force.”