Upgrades have been made to the Saskatchewan Air Ambulance (SAA) aircraft to help patients with complex and urgent medical needs across the province.
The King Air B200 aircraft now has a larger entry door, a bigger stretcher with a new support system and an electronic lift.
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“These improvements make it safer and easier for emergency responders to move patients on and off the aircraft, supporting faster and more efficient emergency transport across the province,” the statement from the government read.
The upgrades come through a partnership of the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement and the Ministry of Health.

(From left to right) SHA CEO Derek Miller, Martensville/Blairmore MLA Jamie Martens, Saskatchewan Air Ambulance Services Director Dan Knisley, Minister David Marit, Minister Lori Carr and Minister Jeremy Cockrill at the Saskatchewan Air Ambulance aircraft upgrade event. (Brittany Caffet/650 CKOM)
“Upgrading this aircraft reflects our continued commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports the health and wellbeing of all residents, no matter where patients live – whether in the far north or in the south,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit said.
Rural and Remote Health Minister Lori Carr said the upgrades are an important factor in improving access to emergency health services.
“Not only will it improve access, but providers will be able to safely provide advanced care to more critical care patients, saving lives,” she said.

The SAA aircraft is the oldest non-military air medical transport program in North America. (Brittany Caffet/650 CKOM)
The upgraded stretcher also allows for safe and timely care for patients who may not be adequately supported with conventional stretchers.
“These changes reflect the SHA’s commitment to the delivery of inclusive, responsive care that meets the needs of all Saskatchewan residents,” SHA Chief Operating Officer Derek Miller said.
What is the Saskatchewan Air Ambulance aircraft?
Serving Saskatchewan since 1946, the Saskatchewan Air Ambulance aircraft is the oldest non-military air medical transport system program in North America.
It is one of two Saskatchewan-based critical care air medical agencies providing rapid transport and care for critically ill and injured patients.
The SAA operates four medically equipped airplanes, with services available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
It completes about 1,500 patient transfers annually.