Farnborough-based Gama Aviation has acquired two brand-new Beechcraft King Air B200Cs. The company will operate the aircraft on behalf of the Scottish Ambulance Service in the UK.

On March 20, the Scottish Ambulance Service launched its aeromedical service at Signature Flight Support's facility at Edinburgh Airport. The aircraft, which will enter service on April 1, will serve Scotland's Highlands and Islands.

The aeroplanes have been fitted with the LifePort pneumatically assisted loading and dual patient stretcher systems.

The interiors are configured to provide overhead medical service modules to secure patient monitoring equipment.

"When you combine the King Air's cabin-class comfort, and its rugged, quality construction, you begin to realise what makes the King Air great," said Randy Groom, president and general manager of Beechcraft.

"The King Air has been a popular choice over the years for such missions as training (both pilot &

rear crew), flight inspection, maritime and overland surveillance, and utility/vip. It has proven its value over the years through constant refinement, mission effectiveness and rock-solid reliability."

The air ambulances provide space for one or more transport sleds, seating for medical crew, medical supply cabinets, oxygen bottle storage and outlets for oxygen, vacuum, medical air and electrical devices in the sidewalls and overhead service panels.

To date, more than 6,000 King Airs have entered service with corporate, commercial and special mission operations in more than 94 countries.

The aircraft has proven to be a popular choice among European air ambulance operators. Norway's Luftransport currently operates 12 King Air B200s; Swedish Air Ambulance's fleet includes two B200s; Spain's Helisureste also operates a pair of B200s; Germany's DRF and Mediair each operate a King Air 200 and Nurenburg-based ADAC operates two King Air 350s.