Helicopter Medical Coverage: Airmedic Supports the First Nations Expedition Over 4,500 km for Reconciliation
Manawan, February 15, 2023 – Airmedic is proud to be the main partner of the First Nations Expedition. The company will provide helicopter medical coverage to more than 60 participants who will begin their journey the following day.
A Dedicated Air Medical Transport System Focused on Safety
A medical helicopter configured solely for emergencies will accompany the Expedition. In addition, two teams of instrument-rated (IFR) pilots equipped with night vision goggles will take turns to ensure they can respond quickly to critical situations. A flight nurse and a flight paramedic will also be ready to intervene promptly in the event of an emergency medical evacuation.
An Expedition for Reconciliation
The route will extend over 16 days, covering approximately 4,500 km. Participants will cross Atikamekw, Cree, Naskapi, and Innu territories, mainly off the beaten path. The final destination is Uashat Mak Mani-utenam.
According to Sophie Larochelle, Airmedic’s Chief Executive Officer, supporting the Expedition was a natural decision. ” We have built a strong relationship with several Nations over the past ten years. This is why we are proud to contribute to the safety of participants throughout the Expedition. ”
” Airmedic shares the four core values of courage, mutual support, strength, and respect. These values define the teams taking part in the Expedition,” said Christian Flamand, the event’s founder and organizer. “We chose our partners based on these values, and it was essential for the Expedition to have Airmedic as a guardian angel. We hope the journey unfolds smoothly, yet we know Airmedic will be there in case of injury. That is reassuring, ” he added.
A Commitment Rooted in Respect and Engagement
For two years, Airmedic has implemented a cultural safety committee. Its mission is to raise awareness among staff about the social, cultural, and historical realities of First Nations. Specific training, long-term partnerships, and concrete actions have been developed.
” We have a unique opportunity to take part in an event that promotes personal challenge while carrying a strong message of reconciliation. The Expedition also honors the memory of missing and murdered Indigenous women, a subject that deeply affects us, ” added Ms. Larochelle.
Airmedic’s helicopter will be positioned in strategic locations to optimize interventions. Through a partnership with Avjet, Airmedic will receive essential logistical support, including fuel supply and access to operational infrastructure that will facilitate interventions. As a result, coordination efforts will be optimized.
This initiative reflects Airmedic’s mission: providing efficient, human helicopter emergency services in all conditions. It also strengthens the long-standing ties with First Nations.
Read also : First Nations Expedition announces partnership with Airmedic
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About Airmedic
Airmedic is an innovative private Québec company offering emergency medical assistance and ground and air medical transport across the province. It is the only organization in Québec operating its own fleet of airplanes and helicopters dedicated to emergency medical evacuations and interhospital transfers.
Since 2016, Airmedic has held Accreditation Canada certification. It is also accredited by Transport Canada for IFR flight and the use of night vision goggles. These certifications demonstrate its commitment to providing high-quality care in a safe environment, 24/7.
Learn more about Airmedic protection
Contact:
Expedition First Nations
Éric Labbé
Communications Manager
C : 514 512-0163
Airmedic
Raphaële Bourgault
Business Development and Strategic Communications Manager
[email protected]
514-709-9633
