International patient transport via Air Ambulance explained

Healthcare systems and standards vary dramatically in different countries. And even if the care is acceptable, most people want to go home as soon as possible. International patient transport via Air Ambulance is then the answer.

Our Air Ambulance services for you

Our repatriation services for international patient transport

For international patient transport, air travel usually is the best suited. 


One option we provide is transport by Air Ambulance. This is the most expensive option, but it comes with unique benefits. It can also - in some cases - provide a way home when travel by road or on a commercial plane are simply not possible. 


Another option is a commercial flight with a Medical Escort. A good solution for non-urgent cases and more cost-effective than a private air ambulance.

Three unique advantages of an Air Ambulance

Speed and long distance patient transport

Private Air Ambulance flights can be arranged for any long distance patient – not just internationally but even intercontinentally. They are by far the fastest way of travel and, because they are not dependent on ticket availability or third party bookings, can be arranged quickly.

Comfort and privacy on board

Repatriations on a commercial flight happen either by travelling in a lie-flat seat in first or business class, or on a stretcher that’s specially constructed across a number of rows of chairs. Either way, the patient is surrounded by others and space is limited, as is the access the medical team has to the patient. In an air ambulance, the patient enjoys complete privacy and comfort.

Accessible if on life support

Patients on life support who require oxygen and are on a ventilator cannot fly on a commercial flight. If the distance rules out travel by road ambulance, a private air ambulance is the only way to bring them home.

An indication of the costs for international patient transport

We cannot deny that a repatriation on a dedicated air ambulance involves significant costs. Not only does it require the aircraft and the medical team, but also a flight crew, fuel stops – as well as a ground crew who can take the patient from the airport to the hospital by road ambulance. Find more about the factors that go into the costs in this blog.


For the most accurate idea of costs, we recommend getting in touch so we can make sure we understand your situation and what’s involved. We may also be able to help you think through safe alternatives if price proves to be an issue.

Get in touch with us if you’re in need of repatriation

If you find yourself or a loved one in a medical emergency abroad and would like to return home, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Contact us with any questions, to request additional information or enquire about specific options. 


We are here to help. You can reach us by phone, email or through the live chat function on our website. You can also request a free quote to get a better sense of financial implications.

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