Africa’s AMREF Flying Doctors has added a pre-owned Cessna Citation Sovereign to its existing Cessna Citation aeromedical aircraft fleet.
The aircraft is expected to arrive at AMREF’s base at Wilson Airport, Nairobi, Kenya and start lifesaving operations in September 2021.
“Continuing to be the supplier of choice for air ambulance emergency services in Africa is testament to the Cessna Citation’s performance, especially when each minute matters,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales for Textron Aviation.
“The spacious cabin of the Sovereign comfortably accommodates a multiple stretcher system and the necessary additional on-board medical staff. The Citation Sovereign’s range increases the AMREF Flying Doctor’s nonstop reach throughout Africa, Europe and Asia.”
To enhance the aircraft’s low fixed costs of operation, accurately budget for maintenance costs and save with long-term aircraft value protection, AMREF Flying Doctors selected Textron Aviation’s ProParts programme to cover the airframe systems and avionics parts required for line, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.
“The Cessna Sovereign was an easy choice for AMREF Flying Doctors when looking to expand our aviation capability and capacity, so as to support our international, long distance air ambulance operations,” said Mike Black, Chief Operating Officer for AMREF Flying Doctors.
“Patient care and comfort is key to maintaining AMREF Flying Doctors’ internationally recognized aeromedical service levels, which are perfectly addressed by the Cessna Sovereign’s cabin and its operating capabilities.
“In addition to acquiring the right aircraft, Textron Aviation did everything to assist with reconfiguring the aircraft for its dedicated air ambulance role at their Orlando, Florida Service Center as quickly and professionally as possible.”
AMREF Flying Doctors is a leading provider in fixed wing air ambulance operations in Africa, Europe and Asia. Serving the aeromedical transport industry for more than 60 years, AMREF Flying Doctors have been a long time operator of Beechcraft and Cessna fixed-wing aircraft.
