FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
December 4, 2000

CONTACT: David Ong
(916) 734-9049
daong@ucdavis.edu

--MEDIA ADVISORY--

UC DAVIS LIFE FLIGHT PROGRAM SWITCHES TO NEW, MORE POWERFUL HELICOPTER

WHAT --The UC Davis Life Flight Program has begun using a new helicopter that is faster and capable of flying in more varied conditions than the program's previous aircraft. The new helicopter, an Agusta 109 Power, has a cruising speed of 184 mph and is the fastest emergency medical service aircraft in California. The Agusta 109 Power has a service ceiling of 16,000 feet, allowing it to operate at higher altitudes with virtually no loss of speed or power. This added capability allows the aircraft to respond to cases high in the Sierra Nevada during the hottest summer days, which historically have not been accessible to any helicopter in Northern California. Because the Agusta 109 Power is IFR- (instrument flight rules) certified, it can fly during poor weather, or on hazy or moonless nights, unlike the old helicopter.

WHEN -- Reporters are invited to view the new helicopter and interview Life Flight personnel from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 6. To arrange an appointment, call (916) 734-9049.

WHERE -- Helideck of the Davis Tower at UC Davis Medical Center, 2315 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento. To make arrangements to be taken to the helideck, call (916) 734-9049.

WHO -- Available for interviews will be Life Flight's chief flight nurse and one of its pilots.

BACKGROUND -- During its 15-year history, the Life Flight program has transported more than 8,700 critically ill or injured patients, regardless of their ability to pay. The program serves an area within a 150-mile radius of Sacramento.