Pegasus Air, the air rescue arm of UVA Health’s medical transport program, celebrated its 40th anniversary of flight service at UVA Health University Medical Center’s rooftop helipad on September 8. Pegasus Air has transported more than 20,000 patients over the program’s 40-year history.
“One of the most important things we do at UVA Health is delivering expert care when and where it’s needed most,” says Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer, UVA Health University Medical Center. “For 40 years, our Pegasus team has helped make that possible by delivering lifesaving care through both air and ground programs across the state.”
UVA Health’s transport program has grown significantly over the years and now includes approximately 20 flight nurses and paramedics, 10 neonatal and pediatric specialists and more than 50 emergency medical services providers.
Pegasus Air has used five different helicopters during its 40-year history, with the most recent upgrade occurring in 2023. The current helicopter features the latest safety equipment, reflecting a commitment to both patient and team member safety. The helicopter is also larger, providing more space to accommodate patients with complex health needs, including patients requiring specialized equipment like incubators or ECMO (a modified heart-lung bypass machine).
“Day, night … we support the community. Picking up — as needed — patients on the scene, out on the field, on the interstate, or from hospital-to-hospital,” explains Don Rees, lead pilot. “This is the newest thing on the market. The technology is leaps and bounds over what I’ve flown over the past years. It’s important to have all the safety factors we have on this aircraft. I love flying this helicopter!”
Pegasus Air is complemented by Pegasus Ground to meet the needs of patients when air transport is not feasible. The flight crew splits their time between the helicopter and a custom-designed, critical-care ambulance.
The dedicated neonatal and pediatric team works closely with Pegasus Air to ensure that even the tiniest patients are transported safely and swiftly to the Level 4 NICU at UVA Health University Medical Center or the Level 3 NICU at UVA Health Prince William Medical Center.
Pegasus Air & Ground are vital components of UVA Health’s Medical Transport Network, which offers a wide array of transportation services to get patients the timely care they need.
Pegasus Air Team and Wendy Horton on UVA Health University Medical Center landing pad
Filed Under: Clinical