The transfer, step by step
- Call or request a quote. Tell us where the patient is, where they need to go and how they're doing. You'll get a clear price before anything is booked.
- Medical review. We arrange a consultation with the attending physician or nurse and the family to decide the type of transport, the medical equipment and the crew needed on board.
- Receiving bed confirmed. The receiving hospital or facility confirms a bed; a flight can't depart without one.
- Bedside pickup. A ground ambulance, stretcher van or wheelchair van picks the patient up at the hospital, nursing home or home.
- Boarding at planeside. The patient is transferred directly from the ambulance onto the aircraft.
- The flight. The flight medical crew cares for the patient throughout the trip.
- Arrival. A ground ambulance meets the aircraft and takes the patient to the receiving bedside.
Throughout the trip, your coordinator keeps the family informed.
Air ambulance service in all 50 states
Most air ambulance flights cross state lines, and aircraft can depart from airports across the country. Many smaller airports that serve private medical aircraft may be closer to you than the main commercial airport.
Common questions
What do I need to have ready?
The patient's location and destination, diagnosis and current condition, a confirmed bed at the receiving facility, insurance information if applicable, and passports for international trips.
Can the family stay informed during the flight?
Yes. Your coordinator keeps the family updated from pickup to arrival.
Which airport will the flight use?
Usually the airport closest to each hospital that can handle the aircraft. Private air medical aircraft can use many airports that are closer than the main commercial airport.
Last reviewed October 2026 by the Air Ambulance Central flight coordination team.