Life Flight Network will begin operations on Hawai‘i Island this autumn and invest $27 million to support its air ambulance expansion. This builds on the $15 million already pledged by the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation for an Airbus H145 helicopter.

Bases in Hilo, Kona and Waimea will house helicopters and medical equipment, with a fixed-wing aircraft stationed at Hilo International. EC135P2+ helicopters will be used initially, with upgrades to Airbus H145s by mid-2026.

CEO Ben Clayton says: “We've heard first-hand about the challenges patients face in accessing timely, high-quality emergency medical transportation. Our goal is to increase access, improve outcomes and save lives.”

Mayor Kimo Alameda supports the expansion: “Its decision to open multiple bases here strengthens our emergency response capabilities and brings critical care closer to our rural and remote areas.”

The new bases are also backed by healthcare leaders. Hawai‘i Health Systems’ Clayton McGhan says: “Enhancing air medical transport capacity is vital for rural communities like ours.”

The company is partnering with Queen’s North Hawai‘i Community Hospital and Kona Community Hospital. In addition, it will operate a Daniel R. Sayre Foundation-owned H145D3, acquired through donations.

Chief business officer Dominic Pomponio says the effort is “a significant investment in the people of Hawai‘i” and includes hiring highly trained staff to serve around the clock.

Life Flight Network’s decision follows the signing of a letter of intent and months of engagement with Hawai‘i County officials, first responders and hospital leaders, including the Daniel R. Sayre Memorial Foundation. These discussions highlighted the critical need for more timely air medical access, particularly in remote areas with limited transport options.