Local news delivered daily to your email inbox. Subscribe for FREE to the rdnewsNOW newsletter.

Rocky heliport now operational

Aug 4, 2017 | 7:24 AM

Transport Canada has given the go ahead for ambulance helicopters to now finally land on the heliport at the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre, according to Alberta Health Services.

The heliport is able to accommodate both models of helicopters used by STARS Air Ambulance.

“We are pleased to announce the heliport is operational in time for the August long weekend,” Kerry Bales, Chief Zone Officer of AHS Central Zone says in a release. “It has been a lengthy process but we have very much appreciated the collaboration with the town and community.”

The Town’s iconic water tower near the flight path was removed in order for Transport Canada to give approval to land at the heliport. The tower was dismantled this spring with the Transport Canada inspection taking place on July 26.

Until now, all STARS helicopters were landing at the Rocky Mountain House airport, located about eight kilometres from the health centre. Ground ambulances were used to transport patients to and from the health centre and airport.

“A super job well done,” says Rocky Mountain House Mayor Fred Nash in a release. “It’s been a pleasure working with the professionalism of Alberta Health Services for the betterment of the town of Rocky Mountain House, the county and the many visitors who come here.”

AHS spent $430,000 to pay for the tower demolition and the relocation of the town, county and regional fire communication antennas that were located on top of the tower.