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06/26/2018

HealthNet Aeromedical Services Celebrates New Aircraft, Improved Services in Eastern Panhandle

HealthNet Aeromedical Services Celebrates New Aircraft, Improved Services in Eastern Panhandle

MARTINSBURG – Leaders from HealthNet Aeromedical Services, WVU Medicine, Air Methods Corporation and local government officials gathered at the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport to celebrate the addition of an upgraded medical helicopter to the region.

The HealthNet Aeromedical Services Base 8 aircraft was recently upgraded from an EC-130 aircraft to a larger, twin engine EC-135 helicopter that will allow the flight crew to fly longer distances, at higher speeds, in inclement weather and grants them more room to access and care for patients.

“Healthcare needs go right along with the strong economic growth happening here in the Eastern Panhandle. This upgraded aircraft is a prime example of our commitment to providing quality critical care transport to the citizens and visitors of this region,” said Clinton Burley, President and CEO HealthNet Aeromedical Services.

Every WVU Medicine affiliated HealthNet Aeromedical Services base now has a twin-engine aircraft. The Base 8 aircraft carries blood and plasma on every flight and will remain the only air medical program in the region to offer these lifesaving products to its patients.

“This ribbon cutting for the new aircraft isn’t just a celebration, it shows our dedication to being healthcare partners,” said Albert Wright, President and CEO WVU Medicine. “It shows we want to be there for our patients wherever they are in their greatest time of need. We can continue to do that with a top-notch fleet that allows us to put patient and flight crew safety first.”

Air Methods, who oversees aircraft operations, provided training for pilots on operating the EC-135 at their headquarters in Colorado before the new helicopter arrived in late May.