VIP Completions has detailed its conversion of a Gulfstream G550 from business aircraft to medical evacuation (medevac) air ambulance. Upon completion in summer 2024, this aircraft immediately entered service and began flying life-saving missions.
This G550 is operated by Hatzolah Air, a non-profit provider of emergency medical air transport, staffed by more than 360 volunteer flight physicians, paramedics, EMTs, dispatchers and case managers. Hatzolah Air is entirely funded by private donors and services are provided to patients and their families completely free of charge. Headquartered at Sullivan County International Airport (MSV) in Bethel, New York, Hatzolah Air operates a fleet of four fixed-wing and multiple rotor aircraft.
The centrepiece of the conversion was the installation of a Spectrum Aeromed Extended Range stretcher and modular life support system.
The floorplan features three main cabin areas – the life support zone, galley and lounge. There are two lavatories – forward crew and aft lounge. The aircraft has capacity for up to 12 medical crew/passengers in single-stretcher configuration and up to eight when transporting two patients.
Highlights of the design upgrade include custom-designed seats in the cabin upholstered with Garrett leathers; wool carpeting by RedRock throughout the cabin; and customised accent panels by Tapis.
“We are very proud to be working with Eli Rowe and the Hatzolah Air team,” said Ben Shirazi, president, VIP Completions. “It is an inspiring volunteer organisation that does amazing work and Eli has a unique ability to get things done. This G550 was generously gifted to Hatzolah Air and we are supporting its conversion by donating our labour and expertise.”
VIP Completions’ long-standing supplier partners Garrett, RedRock and Tapis are also contributing to this non-profit initiative by donating premium materials.
“For VIP Completions, the conversion of a business aircraft to an air ambulance is a departure from our typical projects,” said Shirazi. “As an extension of our expertise, we are able to leverage years of experience in interior completions, exceptional craftsmanship and the attention to detail of our team of experts. We invite other parties interested in medevac conversions to contact us at their convenience.”
