Life Flight Network, a leading air medical transport service in the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain West, is thrilled to announce the installation of liquid oxygen (LOX) in a brand new Pilatus PC-12 aircraft, in collaboration with Spectrum Aeromed, a renowned provider of customized air medical solutions. This groundbreaking project marks the first of its kind to receive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for this oxygen configuration, demonstrating the commitment of both organizations to innovative patient care.
The integration of LOX technology into the Pilatus PC-12 represents a significant leap forward in air medical transport capabilities. This innovative system more than triples the oxygen carrying capacity, providing vital support for critically ill and injured patients during extended flights. The space-saving design, developed by Spectrum Aeromed, maximizes efficiency without compromising oxygen capacity, offering a superior solution compared to previous methods.
“This collaboration with Spectrum Aeromed exemplifies our unwavering dedication to continuously improving the level of care we provide to our patients,” said Casey Seckel, chief clinical officer at Life Flight Network. “The addition of liquid oxygen capabilities in our Pilatus PC-12 aircraft marks a significant milestone in our mission to serve communities across the region, allowing for extended duration of use, and greater portability and accessibility.”
Matthew Christenson, VP Account Executive at Spectrum Aeromed, highlighted the transformative impact of this project: “The integration of our dedicated interior, including the revolutionary Liquid Oxygen (LOX) technology, into the Pilatus PC-12 not only enhances operational efficiency but also significantly improves patient care capabilities. This solution, particularly the LOX system, exemplifies our commitment to innovation, offering unparalleled space and weight savings. A single 5-Liter LOX orb, for instance, drastically reduces weight while providing a continuous oxygen supply, enabling longer missions.”
Life Flight Network is committed to equipping their entire fleet of Pilatus PC-12s with liquid oxygen in the coming years, further demonstrating their dedication to investing in their fleet, staff, and the communities they serve. This ambitious project will require significant financial resources, and the organization warmly welcomes community support through the Life Flight Network Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2009 to provide critical financial support to their mission services. Individuals interested in learning more or donating can visit www.lifeflight.org/foundation.
About Life Flight Network
Life Flight Network is the largest not-for-profit air medical service in the United States, dedicated to saving lives through industry-leading care and transport. Accredited by national and international accrediting bodies for safety, operations, and clinical excellence, Life Flight Network maintains its own FAA Part 135 Operating Certificate, offering ICU-level care during air and ground transport across the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain West. Headquartered in Aurora, Oregon, Life Flight Network is owned by a consortium of Legacy Health, Oregon Health and Science University, Providence Health and Services, and Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center. It was named the 2021 Program of the Year by the Association for Air Medical Services. For more information about Life Flight Network or to become a member, visit www.lifeflight.org.
About Spectrum Aeromed
Spectrum Aeromed is a global leader in the design and production of air ambulance equipment and medical interiors. With a focus on quality, reliability, and customer service, Spectrum Aeromed provides comprehensive solutions that save lives and enhance the capabilities of medical air transport teams worldwide. The company’s innovative products are utilized by a diverse clientele, including government and private entities, ensuring that patients receive the care they need. For more information about Spectrum Aeromed and its services, please visit Spectrum-Aeromed.com.
