AirCARE1 Receives FAA Authorization for In-Flight Nitric Oxide Administration
AirCARE1 has obtained FAA approval to administer inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) on its Learjet 60 medical flights, expanding critical respiratory care capabilities.
AirCARE1, an air ambulance operator based in Albuquerque, has secured FAA authorization to provide inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) therapy during medical flights. The approval allows the company to use its Learjet 60 aircraft to transport patients requiring specialized respiratory support, ensuring continuity of care from hospital to hospital.
Nitric oxide is a prescription gas used to relax blood vessels in the lungs, improving oxygenation for medically fragile patients, including infants suffering from pulmonary hypertension. Due to the gas's status as a regulated hazardous material, the FAA authorization required AirCARE1 to implement specialized equipment, updated operational procedures, and rigorous training for its clinical flight crews.
This development aims to address the limitations of standard oxygen support on long-range missions. AirCARE1, which holds dual accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems and the European Aeromedical Institute, specializes in fixed-wing, intensive-care-style transport for patients requiring non-commercial flight solutions.