For almost 4 decades, the Beechcraft King Air has been the backbone of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) aeromedical fleet, supporting the safe and reliable transfer of patients across regional, rural and remote communities.
Building on this proven platform, the RFDS is investing in the future through the acquisition of 6 new King Air 260C aircraft, ensuring the organisation continues to deliver world-class aeromedical care across the vast state of Queensland.
As part of this significant fleet modernisation program, the RFDS (Queensland Section) has engaged Sunshine Coast-based company HeliMods to design and integrate a bespoke Aeromedical Mission System (AMS) for the organisation’s new fleet of King Air 260C aircraft.
HeliMods is no stranger to working with the RFDS, having modified 6 Beechcraft King Air B360 aircraft into advanced aeromedical aircraft with state-of-the-art medical stretchers, integrated oxygen systems and digital connectivity.
RFDS (Queensland Section) chief executive Meredith Staib said the Service will take delivery of 6 King Air 260C aircraft from Textron Aviation over the next 4 years.
‘This is an exciting new chapter in the RFDS (Queensland Section) fleet strategy and a once-in-a-generation investment in the future of aeromedical care,’ Ms Staib said.
‘We’re proud to work with HeliMods to transform the new King Air 260C into the organisation’s next generation of life-saving aeromedical aircraft, capable of operating in some of the most challenging and remote locations across the state.
‘This is an investment in aeromedical care for all Queenslanders. The new aircraft will be more powerful than its predecessor, helping our medical crews reach patients sooner and transfer them safely to the care they need.
‘Importantly, this aircraft will form part of our centenary legacy – an investment that honours 100 years of service while strengthening our ability to reach Queenslanders for decades to come.’
HeliMods founder Will Shrapnel said the organisation is proud to be working alongside the RFDS to develop and deliver the next generation of aeromedical aircraft.
‘Queensland’s size and remoteness present some of the most challenging healthcare delivery conditions anywhere in the world and the King Air 260C represents an important step forward in Queensland’s aeromedical capability,’ Mr Shrapnel said.
‘Working closely with RFDS (Queensland Section), HeliMods is developing and delivering an advanced aeromedical mission system that will help unlock the full potential of this next-generation aircraft.
‘Together, we’re focused on ensuring the platform delivers exceptional patient care, crew safety and operational capability, supporting access to critical healthcare services no matter where Queenslanders live.’
The King Air 260C builds on the trusted legacy of the King Air 200 that has served remote and rural communities across the state for decades.
The new fleet will deliver improved performance and higher cruise speeds, providing a faster and more comfortable ride for patients.
The aircraft will also have the latest avionics, navigation and safety systems, further enhancing operational capability and safety and will maintain capability to land and take off from shorter airstrips.
It is anticipated the RFDS (Queensland Section) will take delivery of the first King Air 260C, with a full HeliMods fit-out, in 2028, in time to celebrate the organisation’s centenary.