South Texas' Nonprofit Air Ambulance
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – HALO-Flight, Inc. announced today the arrival of their new medically configured Bell 429 helicopter.
"We chose the twin engine Bell 429 for its modern design, cost effectiveness throughout its lifecycle and its single pilot IFR capability, which gives us peace of mind when our patients are counting on us," said Tom Klassen, executive director at HALO-Flight. “We look forward to being able to serve patients and save lives throughout south Texas with this new aircraft.”
One of the most advanced light twin helicopters ever developed, the Bell 429 delivers exceptional speed, range and hover performance, as well as patient comfort and cost management unmatched by any other aircraft in its category. Equipped with a fully-integrated glass cockpit, and IFR capability, the Bell 429 offers HALO-Flight exceptional flight performance.
This IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) capability will allow them to fly in conditions that are outside of their current VFR (Visual Flight Rules) weather limitations. This means they will be able to safely fly patients in cloudy weather that is currently unacceptable to fly in. HALO-Flight is developing low level IFR routes that will allow instrument approaches to all of the regional Christus Spohn facilities and Driscoll Children’s Hospital. The FAA should approve these routes in early 2015.
With this addition to their fleet, HALO-Flight will have four aircraft available for their life saving mission of providing medical transport for critically ill or injured persons requiring medical or trauma facilities within its south Texas service area.
