A tragic air ambulance crash in Jharkhand’s Chatra district has once again brought attention to the high cost and critical importance of air ambulance services in India. The aircraft, flying from Ranchi to Delhi, went down in bad weather, killing all seven people on board, including the patient, family members, a doctor, and the pilot. Reports suggest the family had taken a loan of nearly ₹8 lakh to arrange the flight. The aircraft involved was a Beechcraft C90 operated by Redbird Airways.
This incident has raised many questions: What exactly is an air ambulance? How much does it cost? And can such a service ever be availed for free?
What is an Air Ambulance?
An air ambulance is a specially equipped aircraft or helicopter used to transport critically ill or injured patients over long distances or to advanced medical facilities. Just like a road ambulance, it carries life-saving medical equipment, along with doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. Many air ambulances function as flying ICUs, ensuring continuous treatment during the journey. Compared to road or train ambulances, air ambulances are significantly faster and can cover long distances in a short time.
Key Benefits of Air Ambulance Services
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Rapid medical evacuation: Ideal for life-threatening emergencies where time is critical
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Onboard medical care: Continuous monitoring by trained doctors and paramedics
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Long-distance transfers: Makes routes like Ranchi–Delhi or Chennai–Mumbai possible within hours
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Access to remote areas: Especially useful where road connectivity is poor or terrain is difficult
How Much Does an Air Ambulance Cost in India?
Air ambulance pricing is not fixed and depends on multiple factors such as distance, aircraft type, and level of medical care required. In India, the cost usually ranges from ₹5 lakh to ₹25 lakh or more.
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Short routes (e.g., Delhi–Lucknow): ₹1.5–3 lakh
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Hourly helicopter services: up to ₹1.5 lakh per hour
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Long routes (e.g., Chennai–Delhi): ₹10 lakh or higher
Because of these high costs, many families struggle to afford air ambulances during emergencies.
How to Book an Air Ambulance
The process starts with a doctor’s recommendation confirming that the patient is fit for air travel and requires urgent transfer. After this:
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Coordinate with the receiving hospital
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Contact an air ambulance provider
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Submit required documents such as a doctor’s prescription and patient ID
Many large hospitals help coordinate bookings directly.
Companies Offering Air Ambulance Services
Several private players operate air ambulances in India, including Arihant Air Ambulance, Asha Ambulance, and ICATT, along with other charter and helicopter service providers.
Can Air Ambulance Services Be Free?
Yes, in certain cases. Some government-backed air ambulance schemes offer services either free or at highly subsidized rates, depending on eligibility and urgency. For example, the PM Shri Air Ambulance Service operates in Madhya Pradesh, providing government-funded air ambulances to critical patients. However, such services are not available in all states, and direct booking options may be limited.
Overall, while air ambulances can be life-saving, their high cost remains a major challenge. Government-supported schemes aim to bridge this gap, but wider availability and awareness are still needed to make emergency air medical transport accessible to all.
