DRF Luftrettung has converted its latest Learjet 35A into a flying intensive care unit. Based at Karlsruhe airport near Baden-Baden, the aircraft was refitted by the company's technicians. "For six months specialists in the maintenance facility of DRF Luftrettung installed elec-tronic systems, medical equipment and devices," reports technical department head Wolfgang Stein.

He explains: "According to European aeronautical regulations aircraft have to be equipped with certain electronic components. For example, an enhanced ground proximity warning system, a flight data recorder and weather radar are all included."

Stein says the Learjet 35A was also given technically modified aerofoils to reduce aerodynamic drag. "The new Learjet offers even better working conditions for staff because the interior was adapted to suit the requirements of the paramedics and the emergency physicians."

The new Learjet 35A was used when the medical crew transferred a five-year-old boy with a heart disease from a hospital in Stuttgart to the airport. The emergency physician and paramedic provided medical care on board of the ambulance during his transport to a special clinic.

DRF Luftrettung operates six aircraft for the worldwide repatriation of patients under the banner of the European Air Ambulance (EAA) and in cooperation with the Luxembourg Air Rescue (LAR). As well as five Learjet 35As these include one King Air Beech 200.

Stein says the new red and white liveried Learjet 35A replaces one of the previous Learjets which is now used as a stand-by aircraft. He adds: "Last year, 794 repatriations were conducted, flying patients from abroad to their home countries." DRF Luftrettung also operates 30 HEMS bases in Germany for emergency rescue and intensive care transports between hospitals.