By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Province funding $13 million chopper for STARS

Mar 17, 2019 | 2:58 PM

The Alberta Government is funding a new $13 million helicopter for STARS Air Ambulance.

The chopper – an Airbus H145 — is the first in a medically equipped fleet that will replace the aging BK117s.

A new fleet is also expected to reduce training and maintenance costs while enhancing pilot, patient and practitioner safety.

“We are very excited by this funding announcement from the Government of Alberta to support the next generation of our helicopter air ambulance fleet,” says STARS President and CEO Andrea Robertson. “This new aircraft will make a significant impact on the lives of countless Albertans who rely on STARs for critical care and transport.”

Health Minister Sarah Hoffman touched on STARS’ long history.

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“We’re glad to partner with an organization essential to emergency care in Alberta,” she says. “These funds, along with the generosity of donors, will ensure that helicopter-based emergency medical services are there when Albertans need them the most.”

STARS flew more than 1450 missions from bases in Calgary, Edmonton and Grande Prairie last year. It has flown more than 40,000 since 1985.

The organization operates under an affiliation agreement with Alberta Health Services.