Life Flight Network, the largest not-for-profit air medical transport service in the United States, announced it is opening a new rotor-wing base in Newport, OR, to be operational in the next 60-90 days. The rotary wing aircraft will provide ICU level care while in the air, serving Lincoln, Lane, Tillamook, Polk, and Benton counties, and will be capable of responding anywhere in Western Oregon.

Life Flight Network has served the area for nearly four decades from several locations. The addition of a helicopter in Newport will further enhance the coverage of Life Flight Network. The helicopter to be stationed in Newport will be an Airbus H135, a twin engine instrument rated aircraft. In certain circumstances, the helicopter can fly when it is foggy or cloudy. Life Fight Network announced it may also base a Pilatus PC-12 fixed-wing aircraft in Newport. The H135 can make the trip from Newport to Corvallis in 12 minutes, or from Lincoln City to Portland in 39 minutes, after liftoff.

Each Life Flight Network base contributes more than $1,000,000 annually to the local economy by creating approximately 15 new jobs. The base will be staffed 24/7 with an ICU nurse, experienced paramedic, and highly skilled pilot. The base will also employ at least one mechanic.

Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital, Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital, Tillamook Regional Medical Center, and PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical Center will directly benefit from having an emergency medical helicopter just moments away. Surrounding communities, such as Yachats, Waldport, Tidewater, Alsea, Toledo, Siletz, and Eddyville will also benefit from a closer air medical resource.

Justin Dillingham, Chief Customer Officer, states: “The addition of a Life Flight Network helicopter in Newport will save lives. Critically ill and injured patients on the central Oregon coast will no longer have to wait for a helicopter to respond from the valley.” He adds, “Whether suffering a heart attack, stoke, or serious traumatic injury, we know every minute can count. Patients can be flown to definitive care in significantly less time when we are based nearby.”

For a nominal annual fee, Life Flight Network offers membership options. Members incur no out-of-pocket expense if flown for medically necessary emergent conditions by Life Flight Network.