This blog will cover the major differences between air ambulance variations, allowing you to better understand when one is preferred over the other. Though both fixed-wing and rotary-wing air ambulances offer distinct advantages over ground ambulances, choosing the best form of medical transport will vary based on the situation at hand. The first major difference to consider is that fixed-wing aircraft consist of airplanes, while rotary-wing aircraft consist of helicopters. With this in mind, we will briefly cover each.
To begin, fixed-wing air ambulances are defined as those that are propeller drive or jet engine powered and have wings that do not move. They are typically selected over their counterparts when traveling longer distances as they do not necessitate frequent refueling. More than that, they can fly in inclement weather like fog, whereas rotary-wing aircraft cannot.
Furthermore, fixed-wing air ambulances are also equipped with spacious interiors, allowing them to transport more medical equipment, staff on-board, and critically ill or injured patients with ease. Additionally, they provide a less turbulent ride, so that patients and personnel are not affected by the flight. If an emergency action on a patient needs to be executed, there is plenty of space for staff to carry out their operations.
Rotary-wing air ambulances, on the other hand, are air vehicles powered by rotating blades, such as helicopters. These types of air ambulances usually serve as substitutes for ground ambulances and are used when someone needs to be transported a shorter distance with urgency. For instance, if a stable patient needs to be moved to another hospital that is less than 100 miles away and their condition will not worsen with an increase in altitude, a helicopter is the most convenient option.
For on-scene emergency airlifts, such as car accidents in out-of-reach locations, helicopters can help patients in critical condition with ease. A majority of trauma-related emergency situations can be quickly tended to with the use of helicopters, improving the chances of patients that need immediate access to a trauma center. That being said, you may ask yourself: “Is one air ambulance preferred over the other?”
![]() |
“We Proudly Support Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund that serves United States Military Personal experiencing the Invisible Wounds of War : Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress (PTS). Please visit website (www.fallenheroesfund.org) and help in their valiant effort”. |
We Hope that You Will Visit Us Again the Next Time You Need NSN Parts and Make Us Your Strategic Purchasing Partner.
Request for Quote