The flying intensive care unit
A NOWEBO-Success-Story
1. The challenge – Attention to the problem
The Ebola-Outbreak in 2014/2015 has been the most serious one ever in history. The need for action was urgent in order to evacuate infected staff members and therefore highly contagious patients from the crisis areas. During the flight, these people needed to be treated under quarantine and ICU conditions.
2. The brainwork – Solution development in teamwork
A solution had to be found to make this kind of transport possible. A system was needed which enables medical staff to have all the necessary medical products on hand quickly – without the risk of infection.
In collaboration with the German Government, the Robert-Koch-Institute, Lufthansa Technik and other institutes we developed a gate system. This system consists of an entrance area, a decontamination area and a treatment unit, each with a floor made of NTF surface which is firmly glued to the ground. The PTU, mobile supply containers and medical equipment can be stored inside. Another part of the development is a special waste disposal concept.
3. The prototype – Solution planning
The MEDEVAC – an Airbus A340-300 which was converted into a specialised aircraft in record time. On this airplane highly contagious patients can be treated in-flight under quarantine conditions. The MEDEVAC is officially approved by the German Federal Aviation Office (LBA) and was in service for the German Government.