Air Med 12, the medical helicopter that is a familiar sight around Bryan-College Station, has a new look.
CHI St. Joseph Health and PHI Air Medical have upgraded to a new aircraft, a twin-engine Airbus H135.
The new helicopter will allow the flight team to transport more patients than before, with improved flight stability and visibility and reduced noise
“ The Airbus H135 will also offer a better overall experience for our patients,” said Billy Rice, director of Air Med 12, in a news release. “It has a high-set main rotor for safer patient loading and a much larger cabin.”
Air Med 12 will be able to load and unload patients faster and more efficiently, Rice said, and will use the helicopter’s additional space to transport advanced support equipment or specialized neonatal transport teams, Rice said.
“This light aircraft is known for its endurance, compact build, low sound levels, reliability and versatility,” Rice said. “It will be a complete game changer for our patients and our team.”