Loganair (LM/LOG) has announced it is converting aircraft to carry COVID-19 patients in isolation pods.
The airline is working closely with the Scottish Ambulance Service to provide air ambulance capability and the transfer of patients with COVID-19.
A de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter (G-SGTS), which will be based at Glasgow Airport (GLA/EGPF), has already been converted to use EPi Guards’ EPiShuttle Isolation Pods.
Loganair’s Chief Executive Jonathan Hinkles said: “The team effort to make this happen, moving from a concept to an operational solution in just a week, has been absolutely incredible. Between the SAS and Loganair teams, the concept, testing and training has all taken place and we’re also grateful for the support from the Civil Aviation Authority in progressing this project.
“Although the circumstances under which all of this work has been undertaken are ones that we’d never have wished to see, I’m heartened that the effort which has gone into this is truly admirable. We will support the Scottish Ambulance Service, the NHS and the island communities who rely on Loganair for their lifeline air services if and when our assistance is needed.”
In addition to the DH6 already converted, engineers are also working on converting a Saab 340 which will be capable of covering all the Scottish Highlands and Islands, with the exception of Barra.
The Saab 340 will be able to carry two EPiShuttle pods and their accompanying medical teams.
