Calgary-based STARS Air Ambulance has selected SKYTRAC Push-to-Talk with real-time in-flight data transfer capability for its Airbus H145 fleet renewal program. The lightweight SKYTRAC hardware kit will enable fast and reliable group-talk, simultaneous uninterrupted flight tracking, and onboard satellite and cellular data transfer capabilities.

The package supports real-time in-flight data streaming from any connected device in the cabin or cockpit, including mobile devices and tablets. The system also streamlines the download process for flight data monitoring and other flight logs to save time and reduce manual labour post fight.

“Our H145 fleet renewal program is about selecting the latest technology to deliver the most advanced life-saving care. We were looking for a system that would help us communicate detailed flight and patient information from air-to-ground reliably and efficiently. It was also important for us to have a system that could act as a seamless extension of our existing IT network,” said Scott Young, STARS Vice President of Operational and Strategic Initiatives.

“SKYTRAC offers a flexible and reliable next-generation technology that enables our flight crew, ground crew and partner care providers to have easy access to the information they need to perform safely and efficiently at all times throughout a mission,” he added.

“STARS has been a valued SKYTRAC client since 2003. We are proud to have been chosen by them and to work with Airbus on implementing our full air medical communications suite on the H145,” said SKYTRAC Vice President of Sales Jan van der Heul.

In 2018, STARS selected Airbus’ H145 helicopter as the fleet replacement aircraft for its aging air ambulance fleet, becoming the first Canadian operator to select the H145 in HEMS configuration. The data transfer capability provided by SKYTRAC  has been ordered as part of the initial STARS configuration. The first helicopters are scheduled for delivery in 2019.