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StarFlight has marked a milestone 500 flight hours providing aeromedical services in Tasmania.
The provider, which began operations in the state in January with an initial fleet of three Bell 412 helicopters, is a joint venture between LifeFlight and the Linfox Group.
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“The transition has ensured the seamless continuation of critical, 24/7 helicopter emergency services relied upon by Tasmanians across the State,” the government said in a statement.
“The service has delivered aeromedical retrieval, search and rescue, and aerial law enforcement operations across Tasmania, often in challenging terrain and conditions. In many cases, these missions involve time critical interventions where rapid access to specialist care can be lifesaving.
“The new service strengthens Tasmania’s emergency air capability, with a focus on enhanced operational capability, and reliable state-wide coverage, supported by modern aircraft and highly trained crews.
“Importantly, the transition has maintained continuity of operations and expertise, with Ambulance Tasmania and Tasmania Police continuing their established roles, alongside StarFlight Australia as the new aviation partner.”
State Health Minister Bridget Archer hailed the milestone as “a testament to the dedication and professionalism of crews and partner agencies”.
“Reaching the first 500 hours of flying under the new service is a significant milestone and reflects the strength of the partnership between Ambulance Tasmania, Tasmania Police and StarFlight Australia,” she said.
“Every hour flown represents real patients, real emergencies, and real lives impacted – often in some of Tasmania’s most remote and challenging environments.
“When you look up at the sky, or hear one of these helicopters, it’s because someone, somewhere, is receiving lifesaving care.”
StarFlight’s entry into Tasmania marked the end of an era, with Rotor-Lift having operated the Westpac rescue and Ambulance Tasmania helicopters for around 25 years; Rotor-Lift appears to now be defunct, with its website having been taken down.
The new $354 million contract will run for 12 years, and StarFlight has invested in three new Airbus H145 helicopters for its Tasmanian operations, which are expected to enter service from late 2027.
“This investment in the H145 helicopters represents a significant upgrade to our emergency air capabilities,” said Michelle Baxter, acting chief executive, Ambulance Tasmania, in September.
“The multirole functionality of these aircraft will allow us to respond swiftly to a wide range of emergencies. We look forward to the enhanced service it will bring to our communities.”
The new service is operating temporarily from an existing base at Cambridge Aerodrome before moving to a new purpose-built facility.
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