Black Hills Life Flight, a South Dakotan air medical service, has taken delivery of an upgraded PC-12/47 NG fixed wing aircraft. Based in Rapid City, the crew will use this asset to transport patients needing to go farther distances for higher-level medical care or in weather conditions unsuitable for the programme's helicopters in Rapid City and Hot Springs.

“The PC-12 is known for its short field takeoff and landing capabilities, high cruise speed and good fuel economy, which allows for a greater range,” notes Black Hills Life Flight lead pilot Charles Laws. “The large cargo door in back is also perfect for EMS.”

Additional benefits of the new aircraft include updated avionics, an upgraded engine that allows for better climb rates and a higher cruising speed, and a quieter five-blade propeller. Most importantly, the aircraft can take off with more weight, meaning the crew can transport heavier patients, a family member, more medical equipment, more fuel or a combination of these.

Black Hills Life Flight is part of Air Methods, the USA's leading air medical provider, which is transitioning much of its nationwide fixed wing fleet to the PC-12 to allow pilots to serve various bases as needed and to have a higher volume of aircraft parts on hand for rapid repairs.

“This is a very versatile aircraft, known for its reliability and performance,” adds Air Methods account executive Brody Jorensen. “The spacious interior makes it easier and more efficient to load specialty equipment and devices, and offers a more functional space for flight crews and specialty teams to provide critical care to severely ill and injured patients.”

“This aircraft is crucial for transporting patients longer distances for specialty care and will allow us to serve even more people with a wider range of medical needs,” explains Air Methods area manager Vince Freeborn. “Along with our sister bases in Wyoming and Nebraska, we are proud to provide a network of care that serves local communities as well as patients across the region and beyond.”

With the PC-12 equipped as a flying ICU, the Black Hills Life Flight fixed-wing team provides lifesaving care for neonatal, paediatric, high-risk obstetric and adult patients with cardiac, stroke, trauma and other critical care needs. They recently added a Zoll AutoPulse CPR device to their list of industry leading medical equipment, allowing for in-flight mechanical CPR. They also carry whole blood that can be administered in-flight for patients suffering from severe blood loss and at risk of haemorrhagic shock.

Air Methods is dedicated to serving communities across South Dakota and beyond. The company is in-network with most health insurance providers, and the Air Methods patient advocacy programme works with all patients, regardless of insurance status, to help ensure the affordability of air medical services. Patients do not need a membership to be transported by any air medical company.