The medical emergency air transport operation will be managed by Gulf Med, a global entity with extensive sector experience, starting July 1st, continuing until 2030. The new company will gradually take over services, ensuring compliance with legal and operational requirements, predominantly focusing on operational safety, as stated by the National Institute of Medical Emergencies (INEM).
To support this transition, the Portuguese Air Force will temporarily provide medical emergency helicopter services starting on July 1st, until Gulf Med fully implements the Medical Emergency Helicopter Service (SHEM), adhering to all European aeronautical legislation regulations.
Helicopters will be stationed in Macedo de Cavaleiros and Loulé, with an additional helicopter becoming available in Évora on July 15. It is expected that an aircraft for the Viseu base will be operational by August.
The Civil Aviation Pilots’ Union has expressed concerns that the speed of emergency air transport might be compromised if the Portuguese Air Force is responsible, due to the differing locations of helicopter bases.
The government announced on Thursday that, starting next Tuesday, the Portuguese Air Force’s aircraft and teams will provide medical emergency air transport until the INEM’s public tender receives approval from the Court of Auditors.
