IIT Madras-Backed ePlane to Deliver 766 Air Ambulances to ICATT

 EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @ CHENNAI:
In a groundbreaking move, ePlane Company, an IIT Madras-incubated startup known for its innovative flying electric taxis, has partnered with the International Critical-care Air Transfer Team (ICATT) to revolutionize medical transport in India. As part of this partnership, ePlane will provide 766 air ambulances to ICATT, enhancing emergency healthcare accessibility across the country.

ICATT, a leading provider of air ambulance services in India, will procure these advanced aircraft to ensure rapid medical intervention in all districts nationwide. While the financial details will be finalized closer to the delivery dates, the total deal value is expected to exceed $1 billion.

With India witnessing approximately 463 road accident deaths daily in 2022, the demand for faster medical transport solutions is at an all-time high. The national 108 emergency helpline receives between 3,000 to 4,000 calls per day in each state, underscoring the urgent need for efficient air medical services.

This partnership aims to establish India’s most extensive air ambulance network, eliminating geographical barriers to critical care. ICATT will leverage its expertise to ensure ePlane’s aircraft meet rigorous e-air-ambulance mission standards. The initiative will significantly cut down response times for transporting patients, organs, life-saving medicines, and medical equipment, especially in rural and high-accident zones.

At the heart of this initiative is ePlane’s flagship aircraft, the e200x—an ultra-compact, highly efficient electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicle. With a wingspan of just 8 meters, the e200x can take off from rooftops or small open spaces, making it a perfect solution for emergency medical evacuations. It can transport patients up to seven times faster than traditional road ambulances, offering a safe, affordable, and sustainable alternative to conventional medical transport.

This collaboration between ePlane and ICATT marks a significant leap toward transforming emergency medical services in India, ensuring timely and life-saving interventions for those in need.