QAI’s EC135 SPIFR (Single Pilot Instrument Flight Rules) Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) enables single-pilot operations, drastically reducing operational costs while maximizing efficiency. With only one pilot required, the aircraft benefits from significant weight savings and increased room for patients and medical equipment, ensuring optimal utilization of resources. Life Flight Network’s EC135 is also equipped with the latest Garmin technology, including the GRA 55 radar altimeter and 5G Filter, ensuring compliance with the latest regulatory requirements. The integration of the GI 275 standby instrument further enhances operational efficiency by eliminating the need for multiple standby pieces of equipment.
Spectrum Aeromed’s contributions to the interior include a rear-loading patient gurney, three attendant seats, and a 10-liter LOX oxygen system—the first of its kind certified for in-cabin use at this capacity. The solution also features ceiling valance provisions for radios and controls and multiple mounting options for medical devices, allowing Life Flight Network to tailor the configuration to their specific needs. The project is currently undergoing FAA STC certification, led by Spectrum Aeromed, with completion anticipated in 2025.
“This project reflects the collaborative strengths of QAI and Spectrum Aeromed, giving us the opportunity to design an interior that fits perfectly with our operational needs,” said Casey Seckel, Chief Clinical Officer of Life Flight Network. “The increased oxygen supply extends our mission range, and the seamless process between these two companies ensures we receive the highest-quality solution without complexity. Working with trusted partners who understand our operational needs us gives us complete confidence in the result.”
“Collaborating with Spectrum Aeromed is a perfect example of how our teams can work together to deliver a complete solution,” said QAI’s General Manager, Jeff Holt. “Our focus is ensuring every aspect of the installation and completion is seamless, while Spectrum Aeromed’s advanced medical interiors provide the specialized functionality needed to achieve the best possible outcome for Life Flight Network.”
The EC135 project is part of a broader initiative by Spectrum Aeromed to provide fleet compatibility and platform flexibility for customers, offering one source for parts, service, and training across multiple aircraft types.
“Partnering with QAI Aviation on this project allows us to provide a turnkey solution tailored to Life Flight Network’s specific needs,” said Matthew Christenson, Vice President Account Executive at Spectrum Aeromed. “This EC135 interior improves operational efficiency and offers greater flexibility. The configuration also supports fleet consistency, streamlining operations and ensuring they’re prepared for every mission.”
This fully equipped aircraft, designed with advanced features to enhance patient care and safety, will be on display at the Air Medical Transport Conference (AMTC) November 4-6, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
About Spectrum Aeromed
Spectrum Aeromed is a leading global designer and manufacturer of custom air medical and air ambulance equipment for fixed and rotor-wing aircraft. Spectrum Aeromed’s modular and custom-built air medical equipment is used by all segments of the aviation industry, including charter services, private/VIP operators, royal families, emergency medical services (EMS) and search and rescue (SAR) operations, hospitals, and corporations, as well as domestic and international military and government entities. Spectrum Aeromed holds more than 90 Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) covering more than 450 models of aircraft. Spectrum Aeromed is headquartered in Fargo, ND with a 17,000-square-foot manufacturing facility. For more information, visit www.spectrum-aeromed.com.
About QAI Aviation
QAI Aviation (QAI) is an FAA-certified repair station specializing in completions, customization, maintenance, avionics upgrades, engineering, STC
development and repairs for both rotor wing and fixed wing aircrafts. QAI is an authorized dealer for a wide range of leading OEM’s including, but not limited to, Honeywell Aerospace, Collins Aerospace, Garmin, Genesys, Gogo, etc. QAI is an approved Leonardo Helicopters Service Centre and provides maintenance and completion services for Airbus Helicopters and Bell Helicopters. In addition to dealerships, QAI offers turnkey solutions to meet customer-specific needs with capabilities in aircraft sales and acquisitions. QAI Aviation is also able to meet customer-specific needs with their ability to develop STCs with an on-staff engineering team. QAI is currently located at both the Allegheny County Airport (KAGC) and the Rostraver Airport (KFWQ) in Western Pennsylvania. For more information, visit www.qaiaviation.com.
About QAI Aviation
Network: Life Flight Network exists to fulfill its mission of saving lives through industry leading care and transport. It is the largest not-for-profit air medical service in the United States and is accredited by national and international accrediting bodies for safety, operations, and clinical excellence. Life Flight Network maintains its own FAA Part 135 Operating Certificate, offering ICU-level care during air and ground transport across the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain West. Headquartered in Aurora, Oregon, Life Flight Network is owned by a consortium of Legacy Health, Oregon Health and Science University, Providence Health and Services, and Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center. It was named the 2021 Program of the Year by the Association for Air Medical Services. For more information about Life Flight Network or to become a member, visit www.lifeflight.org.