Australia allocates $193m for two new emergency helicopters
The choppers feature powered stretcher loading systems compatible with QAS and RFDS.
The Australian government is investing $193m (A$288m) in two new emergency helicopters for the Torres Strait and northern Cape York Peninsula over the next decade.
These multi-mission Leonardo AW139 helicopters feature powered stretcher loading systems compatible with Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) and Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) stretchers.
In addition, they will be staffed by QAS and Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service doctors and paramedics.
The crafts will replace two Bell 412 helicopters and will be stationed at Horn Island by the end of the year.
A$1 = $0.67