CareFlight Establishes Permanent Base at Newcastle Airport

newy.com.au – The Hunter region has secured a major boost in aeromedical services, with CareFlight announcing Newcastle Airport as a permanent base for its aircraft operations. This move builds on the organisation’s successful patient transport service, launched at the airport in 2018, and is set to improve healthcare outcomes for communities across Northern New South Wales.

The announcement was marked by a visit from the Minister for the Hunter, The Hon. Yasmin Catley MP, who joined CareFlight representatives and Newcastle Airport executives to celebrate this significant milestone in regional healthcare. The establishment of a permanent base will enhance medical accessibility and expand CareFlight’s capacity to support patients along the east coast.

Newcastle Airport Interim CEO Andrew Warrender described the partnership as a privilege, highlighting the benefits it would bring to regional communities.

“The decision to establish a permanent aircraft base at Newcastle Airport aligns with our mission to provide the services our region deserves. This new chapter in our collaboration with CareFlight will enhance the reach and quality of aeromedical care available,” Mr Warrender said.

He also emphasised the airport’s advocacy for an International Air Cargo Terminal, which he believes would further support aeromedical rescue services like CareFlight while delivering broader economic and healthcare benefits to the Hunter region and beyond.

CareFlight first launched its patient transport service at Newcastle Airport in 2018, facilitating transfers from rural and regional NSW to hospitals such as John Hunter and Calvary Mater. With a permanent base now in place, the organisation will be able to extend its services, provide aircraft maintenance, and support international medical evacuations, particularly into South-East Asia.

CareFlight CEO Mick Frewen said the Newcastle base strengthens the organisation’s ability to deliver life-saving care while leveraging its proximity to major medical facilities.

“Our crew and staff are dedicated to saving lives and ensuring the best possible healthcare outcomes,” Mr Frewen said. “Newcastle is an ideal location for patient transport services covering Northern and North-Western NSW, as well as our Air Ambulance operations in the Pacific region.”

The establishment of this permanent base cements CareFlight’s commitment to the Hunter and surrounding areas, ensuring faster, more efficient medical transport for those in need.