The region’s only 24-hour medevac service unveiled its life-saving aircraft.
Last night, Phoenix Heli-Flight showed off its Eurocopter 135 to media and stakeholders at its hanger on Airport Road. Phoenix still needs to install more equipment in the machine, and get the regulatory approvals before it will be fully in service in September.
President Paul Spring says the invitation wasn’t extended to Alberta Health Services, which continuing to review whether it should fund the service during the long term.
“This is really a recognition of people who got behind the project. Alberta Health usually turns me down because they’re in a mode of studying,” said Spring.
The RMWB and industries split the $3 million operating costs for one year. Phoenix is also getting an engine from the manufacturer as a back up. It’s estimated at about $1 million. Hero 1 is operated by two pilots and can carry two paramedics and a patient.
