Gates Aviation, a leading aviation consultancy, is evaluating private air ambulance operators
capability to properly transport COVID-19 patients on behalf of an important multinational
client. The focus is the safety and quality of care for their overseas employees in an emergency
situation requiring an evacuation by air.
The concern that “these operations are mainly run by private operators whose main focus is
commercial with little or no consideration for medical conditions of patients as well as the
suitability of the aircraft for patient transportation” was highlighted by South Africa at the 39th
ICAO Assembly Session. (ICAO A39-WP/199).
Sean Gates, CEO of Gates Aviation, stressed “In these difficult times, care must be taken in
safeguarding the lives of employees. Due diligence must be exercised, for their wellbeing and
to satisfy the legal responsibility of employers.”
Gates Aviation has significant expertise in the provision of audit and research services to
aviation service providers as well as advising on safety, security, business continuity, disaster
preparation and management. The company has regularly been identified as a leading aviation
consultancy, most recently in Global 100-2020.