LifeNet Air Begins New Partnership with Metro Aviation

October 1, 2026

LifeNet Air officially begins its partnership with Metro Aviation today, October 1, 2026, and launches in-house Air Dispatch at LifeNet’s Hot Springs Communications Center. Together, these developments mark a new chapter for a program that has provided critical care air medical transport since 1983.

The partnership does not change LifeNet Air’s nonprofit ownership, identity, or mission. LifeNet Air remains part of LifeNet EMS.

With the launch of in-house Air Dispatch, flight requests will now be coordinated directly through LifeNet’s communications team. Dispatch personnel have completed air communications training through Metro Aviation to support aircraft coordination and communication with hospitals, EMS agencies, and emergency response partners.

For all LifeNet Air flight requests, call 833-611-LIFE(5433). Partners are encouraged to update their contact lists and share this number with personnel responsible for requesting air medical transport.

Founded in 1982, Metro Aviation began providing air medical aviation services in 1983 and now supports programs throughout the United States through aircraft operations, maintenance, and aviation training, with a longstanding commitment to safety, quality, and customer service.

LifeNet Air’s critical care services remain unchanged. Clinical flight crews will continue providing advanced care during transport, including ventilator management and transport of patients supported by Impella devices. The program’s rotor-wing aircraft carry packed red blood cells (PRBCs) and plasma, allowing crews to administer blood products during transport.

“LifeNet Air has been serving its communities for more than four decades, and there’s a tremendous amount of history and trust behind that name,” said Todd Stanberry, Vice President of Metro Aviation. “Our role is to support the program with safe, reliable aviation services while allowing LifeNet to continue doing what it has done since 1983—providing exceptional care to the communities it serves. We are proud to welcome LifeNet into the Metro family.”

Under the new partnership, Metro will initially operate EC135 helicopters in support of LifeNet Air. Helicopter bases serve Hot Springs, Arkansas; Texarkana, Texas; and Daingerfield, Texas, with fixed-wing service based in Texarkana.

LifeNet Air is working with hospitals, EMS agencies, fire departments, and emergency management officials to share transition information and coordinate aircraft safety and landing zone training.

Since its first flight on June 18, 1983, LifeNet Air has helped patients reach the care they need. This new partnership and the addition of in-house Air Dispatch carry that 43-year commitment forward.

Still LifeNet Air. Still Home.

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