Chad is the editor of AINalerts, AIN's daily business aviation newsletter, and is also the news editor at AIN Media Group.&nbsp;He has been writing about aviation, with an emphasis on business aviation, since 1994. Chad started his writing career at The Avion,&nbsp;the&nbsp;student newspaper at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida, serving as editor-in-chief before graduating with a bachelor's in aeronautical science. After a stint as managing editor at Professional Pilot&nbsp;magazine, he joined&nbsp;AIN in late 1998. Chad holds a commercial pilot certificated with instrument and multi-engine ratings, and he also is a CFI/CFII. He lives and works from his home in Venice, Florida.

Online Editor

Chad Trautvetter

The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (RFDS Western Operations) took delivery of the first Pilatus PC-24 equipped with a medevac interior yesterday. Configured for patient transport, this twinjet includes beds for three patients and additional seats for medical personnel, as well as oxygen, vacuum, and power systems to ensure multi-parameter patient monitoring and support.

 


According to Pilatus, the interior was installed under an STC developed in partnership with Aerolite AG, a Swiss company specializing in aircraft medical interiors. The installation also includes an electric stretcher loading device, which eases loading and unloading of patients via the PC-24’s large rear cargo door.

 


“The Royal Flying Doctor Service Western Operations is proud to be introducing with Pilatus the first Rio Tinto Lifeflight PC-24 into service in Australia,” said RFDS CEO Rebecca Tomkinson. “The innovative aeromedical interior is…a game changer for patient outcomes and improving health care to regional and remote Australians.”

 


The RFDS, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary, currently has a fleet of more than 35 PC-12 turboprop singles to provide “comprehensive basic medical assistance across Australia.” Its PC-24 will be used to transport patients over longer distances in conjunction with the existing PC-12 fleet. RFDS Central Operations will take delivery of a medevac-equipped PC-24 next year, Pilatus said.

News and issues concerning the aviation charter and fractional-ownership industries and markets, including company announcements, regulations, new developments and labor issues.

RFDS Takes Delivery of First Medevac-equipped PC-24

The Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia's medevac-outfitted Pilatus PC-24 will allow it to transport patients longer distances.

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New developments at FBOs including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

News and issues relating to business, corporate and private aviation, primarily regarding turbine-engine-powered airplanes and helicopters. Subjects include aircraft, engines, maintenance, operations, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security, and training.

Hong Kong-based group has established a new headquarters in Dubai

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News and issues concerning general aviation, specifically airplanes and helicopters powered by piston and alternative engines (i.e., non-turbine powered aircraft). Subjects include aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

Charter operator logged record flight hours over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend

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News and developments about airplanes, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles used in all varieties of operations, including airlines, military, business, commercial, general aviation and private.

Company says the Middle East is proving to be a rewarding market for its approach 

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Expansion grows footprint for both companies

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Fractional owners can access fleet flexibility across aircraft

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News about simulators and training procedures, as well as workforce.

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News about environmental issues relating to aircraft operations, including noise issues, emissisions, and regulations. See Fuel for biofuel.

Issues regarding financing of aircraft; aviation insurance; tax issues for aircraft operators; new companies and people in the aviation financing and insurance industries.

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