New King Air for RFDS

[Greg McDonald]

From NEWS.COM.AU:

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) claims it is now Australia's most advanced flying ambulance unit following the purchase of an $8 million aircraft.

The Beechcraft King Air B200C, based in Dubbo, is a radically advanced plane, capable of holding two full size stretchers or seven seated passengers, and will be able to service areas throughout NSW, the RFDS says.

There are hopes it could help tip the odds in the service's favour when the NSW government picks its official air ambulance carrier.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service is competing for a new contract with the government, having served in the role for the last decade.

Chairman Michael Jeffery said the Beechcraft was part of a major fleet upgrade, which will eventually see four of its kind in operation in NSW.

[Steve Jones]

Currently in CBR for its official launch ceremony.

[phil.l]

Any idea which one? rego?

[Bob C]

RFDS Western Operations based at Jandakot W A should have a Hawker 850XP jet in service by the end of the year.

This will be the first jet in RFDS service and is sponsored by Rio Tinto.

And two more PC12s are also expected next year for Western Ops.

[Rhys Xanthis]

Great news about the jets, they've been in need for quite some time, good on Rio Tinto for sponsoring it.

[Bob C]

Hi Rhys

It's common knowledge now that the jet will be piloted and maintained by Maroomba Airlines staff at Perth airport and the RFDS will provide the medical teams who I understand will travel from the Jandakot base. It's not an ideal situation given that it's probably a 30 minute drive but that may be subject to change.

Perth airport was selected as the base because it operates 24/7 whereas Jandakot is located in the southern suburbs where jet noise could be an issue in the wee small hours, notwithstanding the humanitarian nature of the missions.

My understanding is that a jet is being equipped in the US now and should arrive at Jandakot in the next month or so.

[Steve Jones]

Rego is VH-MWK

[Robert Zweck]

An old RFDS Beech Queen Air rego....

[Gerard M]

Just noticed VH-MWK on its way up out of Adeliade too heading north-east into NSW.