The Wolf of Transportation

Air ambulance consulting

Air ambulance consulting for new programs and charter operators

Advisory for organizations launching an air ambulance program, and for existing Part 135 charter operators adding air medical operations.

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Air medical sits at the intersection of two regulators. The FAA governs the flight operation through the Part 135 certificate and its operations specifications. The state governs the medical service through EMS licensure. A program that satisfies one and not the other cannot fly patients.

We advise on sequencing both tracks, the aircraft and configuration decisions that follow from them, and the medical program that a state will review.

Certificate and authority

  • Part 135 certification pathway, or adding air ambulance operations specifications to an existing certificate
  • State air ambulance licensure in each state of operation
  • Base location, operating area and communications planning
  • Required manuals, operating procedures and recordkeeping

Aircraft and configuration

  • Aircraft selection against mission profile, range and payload
  • Acquisition, lease and management options
  • Medical interior configuration and equipment planning
  • Maintenance program and availability planning

Medical program

  • Medical direction and clinical protocols
  • Flight nurse, paramedic and respiratory staffing models
  • Training, competency and currency requirements
  • Quality assurance and clinical review

Commercial readiness

  • Case mix: interfacility, repatriation, organ and specialty transport
  • Hospital, insurer and international referral relationships
  • Billing, membership and payer strategy
  • Crew sourcing and staffing support nationwide

Frequently asked questions

Can an existing charter operator add air ambulance work?
Often yes, through Part 135 certification with air ambulance operations specifications plus state EMS licensing, aircraft configuration and a compliant medical program. The specifics depend on your certificate and the states you intend to serve.
Do you guarantee FAA or state approval?
No. Those decisions belong to the FAA and the state. We advise on preparation and sequencing.

Related consulting

Discuss your air ambulance program

Tell us about your company, your market and what you are trying to accomplish. Consulting engagements are billed at an hourly or project rate, quoted before work begins. Submitting a request does not guarantee acceptance as a client.

Request a consultationCall (305) 539-9920