Concerns about Life Flight’s ability to touch down in Masterton while Hood Aerodrome’s runway is being widened and re-sealed have proven to be unfounded.
A Life Flight spokesperson said the recently upgraded air ambulance fleet of three King Air B200Cs is capable of taking off and landing on grass runways – one of the main reasons the aircraft was chosen.
“It enables us to land at new airstrips all across the country,” the spokesperson said.
Life Flight has already successfully landed and taken off from the grass runway at Hood Aerodrome, although the spokesperson did confirm that grass runways can present some challenges.
“Rainy and wet conditions can limit when it is safe to land, but our pilots and local airports are well aware of these conditions, so all concerns are cleared up before the air ambulances even think about taking off.”
Talk of passenger air travel returning to the Hood also hasn’t raised any concerns for Life Flight.
“There wouldn’t be any concern with a passenger service returning to Masterton, we’re already very familiar working within busy airports like Wellington Airport and other major cities,” the spokesperson said.
“Aeromedical flights are prioritised in many cases, and Masterton’s air control has a long history of working with Life Flight.
“Overall, we’re very proud to see our new air ambulances showcasing their capabilities and are able to continue supporting the Masterton region while the runway is re-sealed.”
