Grady Air Medical has taken to the skies with a cutting edge medical helicopter built to deliver ICU level trauma care across Atlanta and beyond. This expansion marks a pivotal step forward in emergency medical services for the region, enabling faster response times, expanded reach, and advanced care during transport to Grady Memorial Hospital.
Overview of the Initiative
The new aircraft, unveiled in June and formally launched with a ribbon cutting ceremony at Fulton County Executive Airport in August 2025, was developed in partnership with Air Methods and is designed to significantly reduce transport times for critically injured patients. Grady Memorial Hospital, as Atlanta’s only Level I trauma center, now gains a powerful new asset in its trauma response arsenal.
Staffing and Aircraft Capabilities
Grady Unveils New Medical Helicopter through Air Methods Alliance | Photo: gradyhealth.org
Unlike previous air ambulances that serviced Grady, this helicopter is staffed entirely by Grady medical personnel, including nurses, paramedics, and critical care specialists, paired with pilots from Air Methods. The aircraft functions as a mobile intensive care unit, equipped to handle multiple caregivers and deliver whole blood transfusions in flight, a rare and lifesaving capability.
Impact on Response Times and Patient Reach
Grady Air Medical transports patients at speeds up to 170 mph, dramatically reducing travel time. One case involved transporting a pregnant motor vehicle accident victim to the hospital in under 15 minutes, a trip that would have taken nearly an hour by ground. Dr. Ryan Fransman, medical director of the service, emphasized that reducing the “time to care” is critical for survival in trauma situations.
Enhancing Regional Trauma Coverage
Grady Memorial Hospital | Photo: unclepockets
The helicopter extends Grady’s reach into areas previously underserved, such as South Fulton County and other surrounding regions. Bob Meyers, a seasoned paramedic now on the Grady Air team, stressed the importance of reaching patients who could not previously access trauma care quickly.
Operational Model and Strategic Partnership
The 24/7 operation of this air medical service ensures continuous availability, and Grady plans to integrate this resource with traditional ground based EMS to maintain comprehensive coverage. The collaboration with Air Methods brings together clinical expertise and seasoned aviators to deliver care efficiently and safely.
Voices from the Field
Dr. Ryan Fransman called it “an ICU in the sky” and asserted that every minute saved increases survival odds for trauma patients.
Bob Meyers remarked, “For the patients, this is a game changer” and highlighted the ability to reach remote areas with critical care.
A Commitment to Advanced Care
Grady’s MBB-BK 117 Helicopter | Photo: Grady Health System
Grady Air Medical’s new helicopter brings next generation trauma response to metro Atlanta. With its advanced life support capabilities, expert staffing, and rapid deployment, the service empowers Grady Memorial Hospital to extend life saving care farther and faster than ever before.
As Atlanta’s only Level I trauma center, Grady now has a vital aerial extension that strengthens its mission of saving lives when seconds matter.