AirMed becomes first UK AOC holder to gain stand-alone EFB approval

AirMed, the Oxford-based Air Ambulance specialist, has led the way in the UK with approval for the use of stand-alone Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs).

“This is a huge step in our continual strive for greater efficiency within our Flight Operations” says Captain Mike Roberson, Director of Flying. “Whilst we are always looking at new and innovative ways to improve our Operations, we’re most interested in ways to improve safety. The use of the EFB’s in our Learjet 35A’s has enhanced safety by reducing pilot workload, ensuring the integrity of revisions, and consolidating the world’s approach plates into one 2 lb electronic notebook.”

AirMed has chosen the Jeppesen Jeppview electronic navigation software to install on their DT312 EFB units. Throughout the entire approval process Jeppesen has given invaluable support and will continue to work closely with AirMed as they progress the evaluation process for approval on their single-crew aircraft. Steven Morgan, AirMed’s Jeppesen Account Manager comments: “This has been a new and exciting project for Jeppesen to be involved in. We have always seen the potential benefits of the electronic software and it is fantastic to see it being integrated into commercial AOC operations, especially in an operation as specialised as AirMed”.

Director of Flying, Capt Mike Roberson (right) with Chief Pilot, Capt Phil Hebdon showing off the new Electronic Flight Bag (EFB)

After many hours of flight-testing the potential EFB units, AirMed decided that the Sumo DT312 unit was the most user-friendly as well as the most durable. Camtech Systems Ltd based in Cambridge have provided all of the hardware and are also providing the ongoing technical support required for what is now an essential part of the operations of AirMed.

AirMed has managed to attain many firsts during recent years of its operations. Not only is it the only operator of Learjet 35A’s in the UK, it is also the only AOC holder to operate Piper Cheyenne IIXL’s and Piper Cheyenne IIIA’s. All of these aircraft are used for intensive care air ambulance flights as well as passenger and cargo charter work.

The latest member of its 9-strong fleet of aircraft is G-ZMED, a Learjet 35A which commenced operating out of the London Oxford Airport base in April 2010. This was a great way to start the 25th anniversary celebrations that AirMed have been engaged in throughout the year.

Chief Pilot, Capt Phil Hebdon with just some of the Jeppesen paper manuals that required updating prior to the EFB approval

BlueSky Business Aviation News | 14th October 2010 | Issue #96

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