ABOVE: SkyCare is to operate its first aircraft, the PC-12 NGX, from Biggin Hill.
Biggin Hill is celebrating the arrival of its first dedicated air ambulance service, with SkyCare Repatriation (part of BM Ambulance Group) to operate a Pilatus PC-12 NGX from the south London-based location.
‘While the PC-12 NGX will primarily serve missions across Europe, SkyCare’s comprehensive operations ensure medical repatriations are available worldwide, connecting patients with the care they need wherever they are,’ explained the company. The PC-12 will help provide critical care transport for health services, insurance providers and self-funding patients.
“The PC-12 is an exceptional choice for air ambulance missions, combining versatility, reliability, and efficiency,” explained Commercial Director of Biggin Hill Airport Robert Walters. “By basing its operations at London Biggin Hill, SkyCare will benefit from our extensive network of resident companies, including an on-site Pilatus service centre”.
Pilatus explains that the PC-12NGX’s large cargo door, patient loading system and flat floor are especially suitable for medical applications, with the air ambulance configuration providing room for two patients, medical crew and equipment. The manufacturer estimates it also costs around 40% less to acquire and operate than its twin-engine turboprop competitor
The aircraft will augment SkyCare Repatriation’s ground-based services operating from Biggin, ‘providing seamless medical transportation solutions on the ground to complement its air services’. With a fleet of over 60 vehicles in its inventory, ‘the company’s expansion in to air ambulance services solidifies its commitment to delivering world-class medical care and transport solutions across Europe and worldwide,’ concludes SkyCare Repatriation.
IMAGE: SKYCARE REPATRIATION
