A collaborative European project called PROuD will attempt to improve safety in EMS missions by outfitting medical aircraft with new navigational instruments and flight procedures that use satellite-based GPS technology.

According to the organization’s website, the objectives of the project are to:

  • Provide instrument approach capabilities to locations where conventional navigation facilities are not available
  • Enable continued access to heliports in difficult to reach areas during reduced visibility conditions
  • Guarantee the continuity of vital services such as patients’ transport and mountain rescue, enhancing safety and saving costs for communities.

According to an article by the Journal of Emergency Medical Services (JEMS), Airbus Helicopters is supporting PROuD with its H135, certified for highly precise instrument landing approaches in difficult terrain and weather. Together with Norwegian Air Ambulance, Airbus Helicopters recently performed test flights with the H135 in June 2015.

Read more at www.jems.com