Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL) has announced the operation of seaplanes for air ambulance services.
The air ambulance service commenced on March 1 in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA), and the government's universal healthcare insurance scheme, Aasandha. Initially using a Dash-8 aircraft, the service successfully evacuated 25 individuals. The service transitioned to seaplanes, equipped with modern medical facilities for efficient evacuations as of March 15. IASL emphasises that the shift to using the DHC-6 Twin Otter enhances safety and reliability in emergency care.
Operating around the clock, the service employs 15 trained emergency personnel, including doctors, nurses, and medical technicians. The government underscores the significance of seaplane deployment in providing swift medical aid, especially in remote areas without airport access. The strategy acknowledges the logistical challenge of covering the entire country solely with Dash-8 aircraft.