STARS Air Ambulance Service introduced its new H145 helicopter last week in several rural communities including in Brandon.
“This aircraft is a game-changer for the delivery of critical care in Manitoba,” said STARS provincial director of Manitoba operations Grant Therrien. “From the state-of-the-art
medical interior to the advanced flight deck, this is a generational upgrade and a demonstration of our commitment to providing the very best care to Manitobans.”
(Image – STARS Air Ambulance)
Over the course of three days, the new H145 visited Ste. Anne, Steinbach, the Boundary Trails Health Centre, Selkirk, Hodgson, Portage la Prairie and Brandon. At each stop, the aircraft was introduced to allies and community partners from local governments, health care, and first responders. Many donors who helped to bring this new aircraft to Manitoba were also on hand to view and learn about the H145.
“We simply could not do what we do without the support of our donors,” said STARS director of donor relations and development Colleen Mayer. “We’re so proud to bring this
new aircraft to some of the communities we serve across Manitoba and show our donors the truly life-saving impact of their support.”
STARS anticipates the new H145 helicopter will begin flying missions in Manitoba before the end of the year. It’s also expected to shave about 5 minutes off travel time between Brandon and Winnipeg hospitals.
Back in June 2018, STARS unveiled a multi-year plan to replace its fleet of BK117 and AW139 aircraft with nine new medically-equipped Airbus H145 helicopters, at a cost of CAD $13 million each. It says an extensive review resulted in the selection of the Airbus H145 aircraft as the best option for STARS’ new fleet. It offers cutting-edge technology, advanced safety features, and an updated version of the medical interior found in STARS’ existing helicopters
