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FAQ

The information that follows is intended to provide answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive. We are happy to answer any additional questions you may have and encourage you to contact us anytime.

Q: When is a helicopter ambulance appropriate?
A: Helicopter ambulance transport is recommended when a patient is unable to withstand unstable road transport such as that available in Turkiye or must reach the hospital more rapidly that possible by ground transportation. It is often necessary to move a patient to a more advanced medical facility to more appropriately treat the patient's illness or injury. The air ambulance brings medical specialists, equipment and medication directly to the patient.

Q: Can a relative or friend accompany the patient during transportation?
A: Yes. In our helicopters we usually have room for one to two additional passengers, depending on the amount of medical equipment, medical staff and luggage required.
There is no extra charge for an accompanying friend or relative. In most cases we recommended having a friend or relative on board to help make the patient more comfortable. However, if the patient's condition is very critical the medical staff may advise against carrying any additional passengers.

Q: Can relative accompany the patient during the fixed-wing ambulance transport?
A: Where possible, we recommend having a friend or relative on board to make the patient more comfortable and we therefore try to accommodate these requests. However, the model of aircraft utilized as well as the necessary medical equipment and medical personnel will determine whether there is space for additional passengers. Additionally, if the patient's condition is very critical the medical staff may advise against friends or relatives accompanying the passenger.

Q: Where do redstar's helicopter ambulances operate?
A: redstar operates helicopters throughout Turkiye, with bases in Izmir, Istanbul and Trabzon.

Q: What types of medical personnel are present on helicopter ambulance flights?
A: In nearly all cases, a medical doctor and a registered nurse, both of whom are trained in emergency medicine, accompany the patient. Medical specialists may be obtained from university hospitals in Izmir, Istanbul and Ankara. redstar has an its own in-flight medical staff that undergoes continuous training in order to ensure the patient the highest possible level of care.

Q: What type of medical equipment is on board of the helicopter?
A: Each of our ambulances contain emergency medical equipment including:

  • Fluids
  • Burn kits
  • Defibrilator
  • Pulse oximeter
  • Entubation sets
  • Aspiration-suction unit
  • Emergency medical bag
  • Pneumothorax management sets
  • Parasynthesis
  • ECG monitor
  • Oxygen tanks
  • Medication bag
  • Perfusion pumps
  • Vacuum stretcher
  • Mechanical ventilator
  • Non-invasive monitors

Q: How much does it cost to use a helicopter ambulance?
A: The cost of a helicopter ambulance is determined by a variety of factors including medical staff and equipment needed, distance and timing of travel, etc. Prior to travel, redstar will provide a written quote for your review.

Q: Will insurance cover helicopter ambulance flights?
A: This is determined by the nature of the insurance policy and the reason for the flight. Emergency flights due to injury and illness as well as medically recommended flights to move a patient to a medical facility better able to treat the patient's specific condition, are covered by most insurance policies. redstar's medical staff will assess the patient's condition and consult with the insurance company in order to inform our clients of the exact conditions of coverage.

Q: What type of payment does redstar accept?
A: redstar accepts cash payment, cash remmitance and unbloecked checks that are guaranteed. However, we usually receive a payment guarantee directly from the insurance company, and exact payment terms for the patient are later settled with the individual insurance company. Payment or payment guarantee from an insurance company is required prior to dispatching our helicopters.

Q: How much does it cost to utilize a fixed-wing ambulance?
A: The cost of the fixed-wing ambulance varies depending on the type of aircraft used, the distance travelled and other situation-specific factors. redstar staff will be able to offer a flight quotation as they receive the details of the requested flight.

Q: Will redstar fly patients to international destinations?
A: Yes, international transports are available to almost any city in the world through the use of fixed wing aircraft. For international flights the patient and passengers will require valid passports and visas.

sabiha gokcen international airport, Istanbul. phone: +90 216 588 0 216 pbx fax: +90 216 588 0 225 e-mail: redstar@redstar-aviation.com