Patient repatriation

While the Covid-19 virus can be compared to a flu virus in terms of its severity, it is far more infectious than a normal flu, which means many more people are infected. On average, 14% of all infected persons fall seriously ill and have to be admitted to hospital. Approximately 5% require intensive care. Most governments have imposed strict measures to delay the spreading of the virus. The biggest concern is that if the virus spreads uncontrollably, public healthcare systems could collapse due to a lack of hospital beds, medical staff and equipment.

Air Alliance is strictly committed to complying with all requirements of the public authorities to assist them in their efforts. Hospitals have become very strict about admitting patients from abroad due to the reduced number of hospital beds. Air Alliance also respects the official quarantine zones and is not flying to them. Such zones are not to be confused with regions where people have simply been told by their government to stay at home. We are also firmly committed to protecting the health and well-being of our crew members.

The International Assistance Group, which was founded in 1992, was originally founded by five European companies with the goal of helping each other out in emergency situations. Due to the considerable growth over the last 25 years, IAG is now the world’s biggest alliance of independent assistance companies and accredited service providers. The members provide high quality services. The group follows the market developments and benefits from a trusted network of accredited partners.

The IAG Academy was established in 1999 and is the group’s annual training platform. Participants from all over the world are given the opportunity to gain new knowledge through case studies at the practical level and through discussions with other experts.

How do we deal with travel restrictions?
While many countries are only allowing their own citizens or persons with residence rights to enter their country and have closed their borders, we are still able to offer a “Tarmac only” air ambulance jet, which means the patients have to be taken to the airport instead of being picked up at the hospital. Bed-to-bed is becoming increasingly difficult. As an alternative, we are also offering wing-to-wing options with local partners.

Is a negative COVID-19 test required?
Not all countries and hospitals currently require a negative test, but this is likely to change in the near future. We therefore strongly recommend that you ask the hospital providing the treatment for a COVID-19 test before the transport to avoid delays and complications.

Does Air Alliance also carry healthy passengers?
Yes, we do. All of our aircraft have a VIP seating configuration with up to 10 seats. You will receive a quotation via our 24/7 operations centre.

What measures does Air Alliance take to protect patients and crew members?

• We decontaminate every aircraft after every flight with sterilisation wipes, and disinfect the interior 100% with our Saniswiss Bio Sanitizer devices (“nebulising device”). The equipment is portable and can be taken on our flights with us.
• Flight and medical crews have been instructed to take their temperature twice a day and to report any symptoms of a cold immediately.
• Crews on active operations are required to minimise their contact with other medical personnel or ground handling agents.

Business Continuity Plan (BCP):
Air Alliance is not expecting any operational disruptions due to COVID-19. A detailed plan is available. All employees can work remotely via secure VPN.

General recommendation:
As the global situation remains very volatile and the rules change daily, we strongly recommend that you send us your request so that we can provide you with our assessment on a case-by-case basis.

24/7 contact:
Email: express@air-alliance.de
Telephone: +49 2736 4428 45

With our best wishes – stay healthy!

Eva Kluge
Chief Commercial Officer
e.kluge@air-alliance.de