Queensland Government Air (QGAir) soared beyond expectations by becoming the first operator in Australia of the AW139 Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Helicopter to surpass an impressive 30,000 flight hours.
This staggering milestone was achieved amid their monumental response to the Cairns floods, with aircraft VH-EGF ticking over the final hours to mark the occasion yesterday.
QGAir, along with Police Air Operations, are part of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Aviation Capability Group (ACG), which provides frontline aeromedical research, search and rescue operations, law enforcement and government aviation capabilities across Queensland.
QGAir's Rotary Wing operates a fleet of five AW139 Leonardo helicopters, which are responsible for more than 3,000 flights and an average of 2,000 patient rescues and transfers each year.
The recent crisis in Cairns has highlighted QGAir's response capabilities by continuing critical operations and evacuations, despite losing facilities and infrastructure.
Efforts were further bolstered by support teams in Brisbane and Townsville, including the utilisation of QGAir's Fixed Wing assets to transport crew into a closed Cairns Airport, ensuring continued operations in the face of adversity.
An official acknowledgment of the remarkable milestone is scheduled for March 2024, where the achievements, dedication and commitment of the QGAir team will be commemorated.
QGAir's journey isn't just about numbers or milestones, but is a testament to the dedication of individuals who navigate the skies to save lives and to serve the community.
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