According to a spokesperson from the healthcare department, the Punjab government is offering a free air ambulance service for underprivileged patients, covering all associated costs.
The service uses three small aircraft and two helicopters, with operational costs amounting to $540 per hour.
So far, nearly 25 patients have been transported via air ambulance. The service is based at three locations in Punjab, and plans are underway to establish additional landing zones to further improve accessibility.
The initiative was approved by the Punjab cabinet in March, marking a significant milestone in enhancing emergency medical services.
Additionally, the air ambulances are equipped to transport doctors, paramedics, medical supplies, and life-saving medications. These aircraft are designed to operate from short runways and can land and take off from national highways and motorways.
In April, Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced that the air ambulance service would become operational in June and confirmed that training for Pakistan’s first air ambulance service had already begun.
