How to choose the right air ambulance company? 7 essential criteria

Choosing an air medical transport company is not a decision to take lightly. In emergency situations or during a medical repatriation, every minute counts. The reliability, safety, and experience of the medical team can make all the difference.

Here are 7 essential criteria for choosing the right air ambulance company — whether it’s for a loved one, a patient, or yourself.

1. Certification and accreditation: A mark of quality

First and foremost, make sure the air medical transport company holds all required licenses and certifications. This generally includes:

• A valid certification from an organization, for example Airmedic is accredited by Accreditation Canada, and was in the process of obtaining EURAMI accreditation at the time of writing.

• Pilots certified for instrument flight (IFR)

• Authorization for night flights (with night-vision goggles)

In short, these accreditations guarantee safe operations under all conditions, even in complex weather.

👉 Learn more about Airmedic’s certifications

2. A medical team specialized in air transport

A medical flight is not just a transport. It’s a flying intensive care unit. The team should include:

• A physician, depending on the case

• A critical care nurse

• A respiratory therapist

• Specific experience in air medical transport (altitude adaptation, in-flight emergency management)

Top providers carefully select medical professionals based on strict protocols.

👉 Meet Airmedic’s medical team

3. A suitable and fully medicalized fleet

The fleet is a strong indicator of quality. Ideally, the air medical transport company has:

• Aircrafts and helicopters dedicated exclusively to medical transport

• Equipment equivalent to that of a hospital emergency service (ventilators, multiparameter monitors, neonatal incubators, etc.)

• Aircrafts capable of reaching remote or underserved regions

In summary, a well-maintained and purpose-built fleet is a strong sign of reliability.

👉 Read: Inside a Medical Aircraft: Equipment, Team, and Capabilities

4. Genuine 24/7 availability

The service must be accessible 24/7, year-round. A well-organized company offers:

• A medical coordination center operational at all times

• On-call pilots, nurses, and doctors

• Rapid mission activation

This level of availability ensures an immediate response to critical situations.

5. Full logistical coverage

A good company doesn’t stop at the flight. It handles:

• Ground transport to and from hospitals

• Management of customs and medical authorizations

• Medical and administrative formalities

• Communication with insurers and medical facilities

Coordination is essential for a successful mission. Prioritize companies that manage the entire patient journey — from departure point to hospital room at destination.

6. Specialized expertise for unique patient needs

Some patients require very specific care. Ensure the provider has experience in handling specialized cases, such as:

• Neonates and infants (neonatal care)
• Obese patients (bariatric)
• Pediatric or geriatric evacuations
• Patients on ventilation or with high-risk conditions

A provider with this expertise can tailor equipment, personnel, and protocols to ensure both safety and comfort.

👉 Explore Airmedic’s clinical expertise : A real-life case involving a premature newborn baby

7. Transparent pricing, no hidden fees

Air medical transport rates vary depending on the type of service. A reliable company offers clear pricing, with no hidden fees:

• International repatriation: each situation is unique, with a personalized, detailed quote including all costs (flight, care, coordination, etc.)

• Corporate contracts: businesses (mining, forestry, etc.) can obtain annual agreements tailored to their sector, number of protected employees, and desired coverage

• Individual subscriptions: offered at a fixed price depending on the type of subscription chosen, they provide full coverage with no surprises in case of emergency

Recap: The 7 criteria at a glance

Need safe and reliable air medical transport?

Choosing the right medical air transport company can save a life. Don’t wait until an emergency to get informed.

Contact Airmedic today for certified, experienced service.

🔍 Request a repatriation or a quote.

Learn more: How does international medical repatriation work?