His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday launched the services of the Air Ambulance Centre, first of its kind in the region.

Established upon Royal directives, the centre seeks to provide specialised rescue services, patient transfer and air ambulance operations, especially for the transfer of wounded persons and patients from remote areas to hospitals and medical centres.  The centre will also support other concerned entities while carrying out related tasks.

Chairing a meeting of the centre’s board and other stakeholders, King Abdullah stressed the importance of putting all capabilities at the centre’s disposal so as to help it provide aerial ambulance services, especially in case of emergencies.

The King highlighted the importance of putting in place the necessary infrastructure, mainly ramps for aircraft landing and preparing qualified human resources.

His Majesty also stressed that the centre’s mission should be carried out at high speed in the event of providing ambulance services in rural areas and when transferring wounded people by air to specialised medical centres to ensure their safety and alleviate their suffering.

The King was briefed on the centre’s work plan, in partnership with other concerned entities, to boost public services and provide optimal performance.

The centre charges fees for its services, which are designed to help boost medical tourism, a key source of national income.

The centre’s membership base includes several entities, namely the Royal Jordanian Air Force, Royal Medical Services, Health Ministry, Private Hospitals Association (PHA) and Civil Defence Department.