Critical Care International Air Ambulance (Fixed-Wing, Bed-to-Bed)
Air Medical Transport, through its global network alliance, provides medically configured fixed-wing air ambulance transportation operated by FAA Part 135 and EASA-certified fixed-wing air ambulance operators. These aircraft function as Mobile Intensive Care Units (MICU), or ICU-equipped air ambulances, staffed by specialized flight-physiology-trained critical care personnel, Advanced Life Support (ALS) equipment, and medical stretchers. We offer clients comprehensive options for air medical transport tailored to their specific requirements.
DEDICATED FLIGHT COORDINATOR SPECIALISTS
Our service begins with our team of Flight Coordinator Specialists. When clients call, they speak directly with a medical transfer-trained coordinator dedicated to their specific air medical transport. This specialist explains every detail and answers all questions about our bed-to-bed transport services. We provide air ambulance coordination 24/7, with specialists available from the first call until the patient is safely at their destination.
Coordination That Enhances Continuity of Care
Air Medical Transport collaborates with sending and receiving physicians, case managers, and medical teams to coordinate each critical-care air ambulance flight. We synchronize air and ground transport, ensuring all parties are informed for a seamless medical care continuum and true bed-to-bed transport.
EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIP IN MEDICAL AVIATION
Air Medical Transport’s leadership has over 20 years of hands-on experience in international air ambulance logistics, including long-distance international repatriation. We have directed, planned, and coordinated thousands of patient transports across six continents. Our Flight Coordinator Specialists meticulously arrange every step of the fixed-wing air ambulance mission.
Air Medical Transport arranges bed-to-bed transport via fixed-wing air ambulance to virtually any global destination with safe and appropriate access to public airport runways.
Fixed-wing air ambulances are essential for domestic or international transports over long distances or terrain where ground or helicopter transport is impractical. This mode of air medical transport is standard for trips exceeding 300 miles.
PATIENT ADVOCACY & INSURANCE FOR AIR AMBULANCE TRANSPORTS
We understand that air medical transport can result in significant out-of-pocket expenses. We offer patient advocacy and insurance support for both insurance-covered and private-pay air ambulance service options.
Our experienced team assists clients in navigating insurance claims, submitting necessary documentation on their behalf to minimize out-of-pocket expenses and ensure all eligible reimbursements for the air ambulance jet transport are applied.
Our goal is to provide transparent, compassionate service, allowing patients to focus on their health without the added stress of financial burdens.
Need an evaluation for a fixed-wing air ambulance, long-distance international repatriation, or medical transfer?
Contact one of our Flight Coordination Specialists by phone, email, live chat, or Request a Quote Now!
CRITICAL CARE AIR AMBULANCE (MICU) FLIGHTS
A critical-care air ambulance flight involves specialized, highly trained medical professionals onboard a medically configured air ambulance jet.
Critical Care Transports (CCT) provide specialized care for patients whose needs exceed the scope of a standard paramedic. Our specialty teams are equipped for complex cases, including neonatal and pediatric intensive care patients. Medical personnel can include respiratory therapists, critical care flight nurses (CFRN), flight paramedics (FP-C), physicians, perfusionists, and cardiologists. These ICU-equipped air ambulance teams ensure that critically ill patients receive meticulous monitoring and care during their air medical transport.
Critical-care air ambulance transport for patients—including neonate, pediatric, geriatric, and bariatric cases—requires specialized medical teams and equipment. Our Mobile Intensive Care Units (MICU) are staffed by medical teams trained in flight physiology and equipped with:
- Cardiac monitor/pacer/defibrillator
- Transport ventilator with multiple ventilation modes
- Infusion pumps
- Pulse Oximetry & end-tidal CO2
- Aircraft medical stretcher with oxygen & suctioning
Highly specialized equipment available for selected transports, such as:
- ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation)
- Intra-aortic balloon pump
- Fetal heart monitor
- Transport isolette
For ECMO and intra-aortic balloon pump transports, specialized teams (such as physicians or cardiovascular perfusionists) manage the equipment. Our air ambulance coordination 24/7 specialists guide clients to the best transport solutions based on the patient’s precise medical condition.
Global International Air Ambulance Services
As the global population becomes more mobile, the need for long-distance international air ambulance transport, repatriation, and medical tourism is rising. This has increased the demand for high-quality international air ambulance services. Access to air ambulance jet transportation improves outcomes by providing timely access to medical specialists.
Through our Worldwide Network Alliance of contracted operators, Air Medical Transport provides scheduled fixed-wing air ambulance transportation to any domestic or international location with safe access to an appropriate public airport. This includes key destinations such as providing Air Ambulance to and from USA, Air Ambulance to and from Mexico, and Air Ambulance to and from Europe.
For an international air ambulance flight, the exit and entry airports must be international ports of entry to clear customs and immigration, adhering to all civil aviation guidelines. Federal regulations require positive identification for each passenger. We request that each passenger’s name, weight, and a copy of their current passport and visa (if required) be provided at least 24 hours before departure.
Air Medical Transport arranges international air ambulance services to six continents. Each air medical transport is subject to aircraft availability, flight team clearances, international overflight permits, a ‘fit-to-fly’ confirmation, and weather.
The complexity of international air ambulance logistics demands high standards and precise communication. Our performance is measured by service precision, safety, and efficiency. Our background in medical transfers and deep knowledge of the fixed-wing air ambulance industry allow us to program reliable air medical transport services worldwide, including comprehensive Bed-to-Bed Medical Transport. Our Flight Coordinators manage every detail based on the patient’s medical needs.
Types of Fixed-Wing Air Ambulance Aircraft
MEDICALLY CONFIGURED JET AIR AMBULANCE
An air ambulance jet generates thrust via jet engines and is used for the longest distances and high-altitude flights. These aircraft require an average minimum runway length of 5,000 to 6,000 ft (1,524 to 1,828m) at sea level in clear conditions. Required runway length increases with high-altitude terrain, aircraft weight, and adverse weather.
The following reference lists the most used air ambulance jets; The following are average reference specifications at sea level altitudes within normal weather-clear conditions. Each aircraft may have slight variations based on its specific upgrades and air medical configuration for each mission.
*Note: The number of patient(s) (Pt.) and companion passenger(s) (PAX) allowed on each air ambulance can vary depending on the available aircraft configuration, the patient’s condition, the mission requirements for the medical team, flight crew, and equipment on board. The Captain has the responsibility and final authority on all matters related to the aircraft, crew, passengers, cargo, & safety.
| Category | Jet Aircraft Model | Cruise Range | Cruise Speed | Pt. + PAX | Cruise Altitude | Area of Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Cessna Citation I | 1,300 mi | 410 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 | 41,000 ft | Domestic |
| Small | Cessna Citation II | 1,300 mi | 410 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 43,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Small | Bechjet 400 | 1,500 mi | 480 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic |
| Small | Bombardier Learjet 35A | 1,800 mi | 490 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Cessna Citation V | 2,000 mi | 450 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Bombardier Learjet 55 | 2,100 mi | 500 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Small | Bombardier Learjet 45 | 2,265 mi | 535 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Cessna Citation III | 2,300 mi | 535 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 43,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Bombardier Learjet 60/XR | 2,700 mi | 520 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Small | Bombardier Learjet 36A/XR | 2,800 mi | 540 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Hawker 800A | 3,000 mi | 480 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 41,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Gulfstream G-100 | 3,200 mi | 540 mph | 1 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | IAI Astra 1125 | 3,500 mi | 515 mph | 1 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Gulfstream G-200 | 3,800 mi | 550 mph | 1 Pt.+ up to 6* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Gulfstream G-III | 4,000 mi | 550 mph | 1 Pt. + up to 6* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Dassault Falcon 50 | 4,000 mi | 550 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 49,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Challenger 601 | 4,000 mi | 506 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Challenger 650 | 4,038 mi | 528 mph | Up to 2 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Challenger 604 | 4,250 mi | 540 mph | Up to 1 to 4 Pt. + 1 to 2* | 41,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Challenger 605 | 4,600 mi | 528 mph | Up to 3 Pt. + up to 4* | 41,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Dassault Falcon 900 | 4,980 mi | 590 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 51,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Global | 7,111 mi | 560 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + up to 8* | 51,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Gulfstream G-650ER | 8,160 mi | 595 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + up to 10* | 51,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Category | Jet Aircraft Model | Cruise Range | Cruise Speed | Pt. + PAX | Cruise Altitude | Area of Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | Cessna Citation I | 1,300 mi | 410 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 | 41,000 ft | Domestic |
| Small | Cessna Citation II | 1,300 mi | 410 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 43,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Small | Bechjet 400 | 1,500 mi | 480 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic |
| Small | Bombardier Learjet 35A | 1,800 mi | 490 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Cessna Citation V | 2,000 mi | 450 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Bombardier Learjet 55 | 2,100 mi | 500 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Small | Bombardier Learjet 45 | 2,265 mi | 535 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Cessna Citation III | 2,300 mi | 535 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 43,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Bombardier Learjet 60/XR | 2,700 mi | 520 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Small | Bombardier Learjet 36A/XR | 2,800 mi | 540 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Hawker 800A | 3,000 mi | 480 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 41,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Gulfstream G-100 | 3,200 mi | 540 mph | 1 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | IAI Astra 1125 | 3,500 mi | 515 mph | 1 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Gulfstream G-200 | 3,800 mi | 550 mph | 1 Pt.+ up to 6* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Gulfstream G-III | 4,000 mi | 550 mph | 1 Pt. + up to 6* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Midsize | Dassault Falcon 50 | 4,000 mi | 550 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 49,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Challenger 601 | 4,000 mi | 506 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Challenger 650 | 4,038 mi | 528 mph | Up to 2 Pt.+ 1 to 3* | 45,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Challenger 604 | 4,250 mi | 540 mph | Up to 1 to 4 Pt. + 1 to 2* | 41,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Challenger 605 | 4,600 mi | 528 mph | Up to 3 Pt. + up to 4* | 41,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Dassault Falcon 900 | 4,980 mi | 590 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + 1 to 3* | 51,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Bombardier Global | 7,111 mi | 560 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + up to 8* | 51,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Large | Gulfstream G-650ER | 8,160 mi | 595 mph | Up to 2 Pt. + up to 10* | 51,000 ft | Domestic & International |
MEDICALLY CONFIGURED PROPELLER, TWIN PROP & TURBOPROP AIR AMBULANCE
A Propeller is an aircraft that generates forward thrust powered by a single propeller engine and a reciprocating (piston) engine.
Twin Prop is an aircraft that generates forward thrust powered by two propeller engines.
Turboprop is an aircraft that generates forward thrust powered by a single turbine propeller engine.
Twin Turboprop is an aircraft that generates forward thrust powered by two turbine propeller engines.
*Slide form to the left to see more
| Small Prop Category | Prop Aircraft Model | Cruise Range | Cruise Speed | Pt. + PAX | Cruise Altitude | Area of Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin Turbo Prop | King Air B-200C | 1,000 mi | 280 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 | 27,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Prop | Cessna 414 | 1,200 mi | 230 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 | 25,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Prop | Quest Kodiak 100 | 1,200 mi | 200 mph | 1 Pt + 1 to 2* | 25,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Prop | Cessna 421 | 1,400 mi | 295 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 25,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Turbo Prop | Piper PA Cheyenne I | 1,100 mi | 280 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 25,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Turbo Prop | Piper PA Cheyenne II | 1,335 mi | 320 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 31,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Turbo Prop | Piper PA Cheyenne III | 1,500 mi | 320 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 33,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Twin Turbo Prop | Piaggio P180 Avanti II | 1,600 mi | 320 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 | 41,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Single Turbo Prop | Pilatus PC-12 | 1700 mi | 313 mph | 1 Pt. + 1 to 2* | 30,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Small Prop Category | Prop Aircraft Model | Cruise Range | Cruise Speed | Pt. + PAX | Cruise Altitude | Area of Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin Turbo Prop | King Air B-200C | 1,000 mi | 280 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 | 27,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Prop | Cessna 414 | 1,200 mi | 230 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 | 25,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Prop | Quest Kodiak 100 | 1,200 mi | 200 mph | 1 Pt + 1 to 2* | 25,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Prop | Cessna 421 | 1,400 mi | 295 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 25,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Turbo Prop | Piper PA Cheyenne I | 1,100 mi | 280 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 25,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Turbo Prop | Piper PA Cheyenne II | 1,335 mi | 320 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 31,000 ft | Domestic |
| Twin Turbo Prop | Piper PA Cheyenne III | 1,500 mi | 320 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 to 2* | 33,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Twin Turbo Prop | Piaggio P180 Avanti II | 1,600 mi | 320 mph | 1 Pt.+ 1 | 41,000 ft | Domestic & International |
| Single Turbo Prop | Pilatus PC-12 | 1700 mi | 313 mph | 1 Pt. + 1 to 2* | 30,000 ft | Domestic & International |
For short distances and transports on smaller aircraft such as turbo props or twin props air ambulances, the minimum runway requirement for sea level altitude under normal conditions is at least 4,000ft (1,220m). Much longer runway lengths will be required depending on the terrain’s altitude, weight and the weather conditions.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT AIR AMBULANCE
What is an air ambulance, and when is it used?
An air ambulance is a specially equipped aircraft used to transport patients who require medical care. It is used when ground transport is not feasible or for long-distance transfers. There are two main types:
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Rotor-wing (Helicopters): Used for emergency trauma and short trips (generally under 200-400 miles).
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Fixed-wing (Airplanes and Jets): Used for longer critical-care air ambulance flights, ranging from 300 miles to intercontinental international air ambulance transports.
For more details, please see TYPES OF FIXED WING AIR AMBULANCE AIRCRAFT here: AIR AMBULANCE – Air Medical Transport
How does an air ambulance operate, and what equipment is on board?
An ICU-equipped air ambulance operates with advanced medical equipment, including a medical stretcher (with oxygen, suction, and power), cardiac monitor, defibrillator, transport ventilator, and IV infusion pumps. Depending on the patient’s condition, the critical-care air ambulance flight team may include a flight physician, registered nurse (CFRN), critical care paramedic (FP-C), or other specialists.
For more details, please see: CRITICAL CARE AIR AMBULANCE (MICU)
What qualifications do air ambulance medical staff hold?
Air ambulance medical staff typically have advanced flight physiology training and certifications, such as Registered Nurse (RN), Certified Flight Nurse (CFRN), or Critical Care Paramedic (CCP). They may also have additional certifications, such as Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
How much does an air ambulance cost, and who pays for it?
The cost of a fixed-wing air ambulance (both private-pay air ambulance service and insured) is based on logistical factors: distance, aircraft type, fuel, medical team composition, landing fees, and ground transport. If a patient meets the criteria for medical necessity, insurance may cover transport to the closest appropriate facility.
For more details, please see AIR AMBULANCE INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM here: Benefits – Air Medical Transport
How do you arrange an international air ambulance transport, and what information is needed?
To arrange an international air ambulance or domestic transport, contact our team. We need the patient’s type (adult, pediatric, bariatric), medical condition, specific needs, and the transport addresses (origin and destination).
For more details, please see Our Process page here: OUR PROCESS
What are the benefits of using an air ambulance over ground transportation?
An air ambulance jet offers much faster travel times for long-distance air medical evacuation. It provides a controlled, pressurized, ICU-equipped air ambulance environment, which is safer and more comfortable for intensive care patients than long-distance ground transport.
For more details, please see the Benefits of using Air Medical Transport here: Benefits – Air Medical Transport
What are the risks associated with air ambulance transport, and how are they minimized?
Risks associated with air ambulance transport may include turbulence, altitude sickness, and other medical complications. Providers work to minimize risks by planning, using experienced pilots, advanced medical equipment, and careful patient assessment before each mission.
What should I expect during an air ambulance transport, and how can I prepare for it?
Expect to receive continuous advanced medical care and close monitoring throughout the air medical transport. To prepare, please gather all necessary medical records, travel documents (passports for international air ambulance flights), and medications. Communicate any special needs to our flight coordination team in advance.
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Can I travel with my loved one on an air ambulance, and what are the limitations?
Depending on the aircraft and the patient’s condition, traveling with your loved one or companion in an air ambulance may be possible. However, depending on the patient’s condition, type of aircraft, and crew required on board, there may be limitations on the number of passengers and the amount of small carry-on size luggage that can be brought on board.