Scottish airline Loganair, which serves some of the remotest parts of the country as well as major airports, is working with the ambulance service to equip its aircraft with special isolation pods for C-19 patients. Photos: Loganair
Loganair is working with the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) to provide air ambulance capability as the Service faces unprecedented challenges brought by the C-19 outbreak.
A Loganair Twin Otter aircraft has been converted into an additional air ambulance aircraft, allowing it carry Epishuttle isolation pods for the safe carriage of C-19 patients by air.
More isoltaion pods are on order and Loganair is also working to convert a larger Saab 340 aircraft, capable of operating into all Highlands and Islands airports with the exception of Barra.
Barra, with its unique beach airport, will be served by the smaller Twin Otter.
The Loganair aircraft will be based at Glasgow Airport but are capable of operating throughout Scotland. Loganair pilots will be operating the aircraft as usual, and late last week, all received a special briefing from the airline and the Scottish Ambulance Service.
Loganair’s chief executive Jonathan Hinkles said, “The team effort to make this happen, moving from a concept to an operational solution in just a week, has been absolutely incredible.
“Between the SAS and Loganair teams, the concept, testing and training has all taken place and we’re also grateful for the support from the Civil Aviation Authority in progressing this project.
“Although the circumstances under which all of this work has been undertaken are ones that we’d never have wished to see, I’m heartened that the effort which has gone into this is truly admirable.
“We will support the Scottish Ambulance Service, the NHS and the island communities who rely on Loganair for their lifeline air services if and when our assistance is needed.”
