In what could be a game-changer for trauma care in Andhra Pradesh, Bengaluru-based air ambulance provider ICATT is in advanced talks with the state government and top hospitals to launch a helicopter ambulance service that will provide free emergency transport to patients in rural and highway areas.

The proposed service, known as Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS), promises to deliver cutting-edge medical care within the “golden hour” for accident and trauma victims. ICATT’s air ambulances, described as “Flying ICUs,” are equipped with advanced intensive care facilities, surgical tools, and trained aero-medical teams capable of carrying out life-saving interventions on the spot.

In Madhya Pradesh, ICATT operates the government-funded PM Air Ambulance Seva, covering all 55 districts with a dedicated helicopter and fixed-wing ambulance in close coordination with the National Health Mission and state administration. Victims of road accidents and critically ill patients are airlifted free of cost under the scheme. Building on that success, ICATT now aims to replicate the model in Andhra Pradesh.

The company has already conducted live aero-medical drills in Raipur, Chennai, and most recently in Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration with the state police, fire services, and tertiary hospitals. In these drills, a helicopter is dispatched to the accident site, where doctors perform critical on-site procedures such as field anaesthesia and advanced airway management before airlifting the patient. The entire cycle, from the accident to evacuation, is completed within 30 minutes.

“Our vision is to ensure that no life is lost due to lack of timely intervention. But this vision can only be realised through strong collaboration with government bodies and institutions. Saving trauma victims requires a coordinated response between first responders and air ambulance teams,” said Dr. Nalwad of ICATT.

For Andhra Pradesh, the proposed HEMS network could mark a new era in public health infrastructure. If approved, the service will integrate seamlessly with local hospitals, police, fire services, and ambulances to ensure every trauma victim gets access to high-quality emergency care free of cost.

As the talks progress, officials say that the government is keen on showcasing the state as a model for modern emergency care systems in India. If successful, Andhra Pradesh may soon become a pioneer in bringing helicopter ambulances into mainstream healthcare, saving countless lives along its highways and rural belts.