Vertical takeoff and landing is perhaps the most important feature for any air ambulance that operates in urban areas. The reason for this are several and range from the lack of landing space to heavy traffic. Air ambulance helicopters do a pretty good job at this; however, they are not always suited for the job due to the huge rotors. What one needs is a compact air ambulance that is capable of vertical takeoff and landing while being able to accommodate enough patients, medical staff as well as medical equipment. In a recent development, this seems like a reality.
A US Company Partners with an Israeli Aeronautical Company
A New York-based company called Hatzolah Air has got into an agreement with Urban Aeronautics, which is an Israeli company. According to reports, the aeronautical company is in possession of a former military prototype, now approved for civilian use. The uniqueness of this design lies in its internal rotors. The company, it is reported, has already completed over 300 flights successfully thus far. The New York-based company will call its air ambulance CityHawk once it is completed according to its spokesperson. It would be capable of landing right in the midst of busy traffic without too much disruption and be able to evacuate patients effortlessly.
The Air Ambulance Vehicle will be Quite Sizeable
The air ambulance will be capable of carrying two emergency medical service personnel, a pilot, a patient, a companion for the patient, and all the necessary medical equipment. Considering that the vehicle would be much smaller than the traditional helicopters, this is quite an impressive feat. It is estimated that the current market for this type of air ambulance would be about 800, which is pretty good. The development of the air ambulance and procurement of certification from the FAA is expected to take anywhere between 3 to 5 years.
