A new aircraft on the flight line made this year’s safety day unique.
Members of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital’s neonatal and pediatric transport teams took part in a helicopter transport safety day on Thursday, September 17, an annual effort conducted by Mercy Air that reinforces training and ability to care for children experiencing life-threatening injuries or illnesses. Training took place at World Wide Wings Flight School in San Bernardino.
A new aircraft on the flight line made this year’s safety day unique.
Just six months ago, LLUCH — in partnership with Air Methods, Mercy Air’s parent company — added to its fleet, unveiling a branded helicopter with upgrades that specifically benefit children. The addition of the Airbus H145 helicopter marked an increased ability to provide life-saving care for children across Southern California.
Transport teams were able to board the new aircraft, run through real-world scenarios, and ultimately be more prepared for emergency situations.
Axel Rudolph, a Mercy Air pilot, said these training days are important.
“Safety day is a reminder for all the team members that we have to work really hard to be safe,” Rudolph said. “We have to remind ourselves and the team members on safety day what our focus should be when we get in the helicopter.”
The partnership between Loma Linda University Children's Health and Mercy Air is longstanding. For nearly 25 years, the entities have served children across four counties, including San Bernardino, Riverside, Inyo, and Mono. The teams have completed approximately 270 flights yearly.
Kristin Diaz, assistant vice president of clinical operations at LLUCH, said safety is a shared commitment.
“Our annual transport safety day brings pediatric, neonatal and Mercy Air teams together to learn, connect, and prepare for the moments when each second matters,” said Diaz.
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