We are called when time and specialized services or resources are crucial to the patient’s outcome or survival.

Each aircraft is staffed with a pilot and two highly trained critical care providers. Aircraft respond to both interfacility and scene transports.

Coordinated by our communications center in conjunction with local emergency services, aircraft respond to the scene of medical/traumatic emergencies to ensure rapid access to critical care.

Aircraft crews are equipped with PRBCs, plasma, and critical care resources including i-STAT blood analysis.

Critical care services offered by our teams make a significant difference in patient's survival and recovery.

In the event distance prohibits transport by helicopter or ground, Duke Life Flight provides transport by fixed wing aircraft in coordination with MedCenter Air in Charlotte, North Carolina. 

Helicopter transports are a critical part of our program:

• Helicopter transports account for nearly 20% of Duke Life Flight overall volume.
• We fly over 1000 critical care transport cases a year including:
  • Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
  • Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump
  • Impella
  • Nitric Oxide Ventilation
  • Transport Isolette