The Portuguese Air Force will take over emergency medical air transport services starting July 1st. This decision was announced jointly by the Ministries of National Defense and Health, as a temporary solution until the international public tender for the Medical Emergency Helicopter Service is approved by the Court of Auditors and operationalized under optimal safety conditions.
Carlos Marques from the Armed Forces Officers Association expresses concerns about the sufficiency of personnel and other critical aspects. The tender, launched in November 2024 and awarded in March to Malta-based Gulf Med Aviation Services for a €77.7 million five-year contract, faces delays. The winning company lacks helicopters ready for 24/7 emergency medical flights by July 1st.
RTP reports indicate the first two helicopters may arrive in early July but will have limited flight hours for safety reasons, potentially extending the interim period until late August. This situation prompted the INEM to formally request the Air Force's assistance last week.
The Armed Forces Officers Association president highlights potential challenges in human resources and the necessary training for this mission's specific demands.
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