Air ambulances are aircrafts, which transport patients to hospitals. They are used for airlifting the soldiers and civilians in case of emergency. Air ambulances are used for both civilians as well as military situations. Two kinds of aircrafts are used for air ambulances, helicopters and fixed wings.

Helicopters are utilized for ferrying paramedics, doctors to scene of accidents or for a very short uplift of wounded, ill patients from one location to another. Fixed wing air ambulances are utilized for both short haul as well as long haul flights. Short haul aircrafts can be single or twin engine craft, driven using propellers. These air ambulances can land at roads also, closer to scene of accident or war. These crafts are more economical and are faster then helicopters. These aircrafts can be used in bad weather conditions, where helicopters cannot be used.

Long haul air ambulances are usually business jets. These are used for transatlantic travels and are extremely comfortable. They may also be used if a person dies and his body is to be transported overseas. Air ambulances offer multitude of services like,

- Care in case of severe burns.

- Care for patients who have got a transplant.

- Patients who have undergone any neural surgery.

- Patients suffering from oncology related issues.

- Care to kids, younger children, neonatal.

- Patients with cardiac issues.

- Females with obstetrical related issues.

Each air ambulance always has standard equipment available. Few of the essential ones are,

- Equipment for oxygen supply like masks etc.

- A full kit with all general drugs.

- Instruments to measure blood pressure, temperature etc.

- Sets and fluids for giving IV.

- Oral airways and manual resuscitation unit.

- Pumps for suction along with electricity and oxygen lines.

- Various drugs and equipments for cardiovascular health of patients like Cardiac Monitor/Defibrillator.

- Ventilator (Volumetric) for breathing control.

- Special splints traction units are kept for critically injured patents.

Air ambulances are well equipped to take care of critically ill patients. Air ambulances are so equipped such that even is patients need surgery, they can be kept alive till they reach proper facilities, Operation Theater etc. Most air ambulances are manned by paramedics, but at times, doctors may also be travelling in them. Sometimes, they are used for evacuation purposes also.

Air ambulances are fitted with all lifesaving equipments and carry various drugs which may be needed at any point in time. People travelling aboard air ambulances are extremely well trained and can handle critical patients with ease. On an air ambulance, Emergency Medical Technicians, along with a flight nurse, ensure proper care of patients.

Most insurance companies provide a cover for airlifting patients, so hiring a good air ambulance is extremely beneficial. Air ambulances have saved lives of numerous civilians and soldiers till date. Though there have been some concerns about the number of crashes, their usefulness in saving lives of patients is unquestioned.