Air Transport for Patients with Infectious and Contagious Diseases

Service Highlights:

  • Specialized Infectious Disease Air Transport for Safe Patient Transfers: AirCARE1 provides expert infectious disease air transport services, meticulously planned with strict adherence to procedures to mitigate transmission risks and ensure patient safety and comfort.
  • Dedicated COVID-19 Patient Air Transport with Advanced Isolation: We offer secure COVID-19 patient air transport using FDA-approved portable medical isolation transport units like the ISO-VAC and Amron NIV Hood, preventing disease spread while allowing continuous medical monitoring.
  • Comprehensive Medical Isolation Transport for Contagious Illnesses: Our medical isolation transport capabilities are designed for patients with contagious diseases such as COVID-19, H5N1, and SARS, ensuring a safe and controlled environment during critical medical flights.
  • Seamless Infectious Disease Transport with ICU-Level Care: AirCARE1’s infectious disease air transport services feature advanced medical equipment found in an ICU, tailored to specific patient needs, and include thorough decontamination processes to protect all involved.

When a patient with an infectious disease requires transport, careful planning and strict following of procedures are essential to mitigate the risk of transmission and ensure a smooth experience. At AirCARE1, we have the expertise, experience, and equipment necessary to create a comfortable environment and maintain safety for those in our care.

What Are Infectious Disease Transports?

Infectious disease transport services involve assisting patients with contagious illnesses in reaching their destination. This is often for follow-up appointments with specialists or to seek a doctor who will run tests or provide medication for the condition. Some infectious disease transports focus on rehabilitation or returning home after receiving care.

The goal of these transport services is to allow patients to travel comfortably without posing unnecessary risk to themselves or others inside the aircraft cabin.

Private Infectious Disease Transports

At AirCARE1, our professionals offer private infectious disease transports for a more comfortable experience. Our team flies to most parts of the United States to pick you or a loved one up for additional care. Whether you or someone in your family needs to travel to a different city or country for an appointment or rehabilitation, we keep the process seamless to ensure peace of mind and convenience.

Our services are helpful in situations where commercial flights are not an option for a patient due to their contagious illness. AirCARE1’s infectious disease transport flights feature the advanced medical equipment you would find in an intensive care unit (ICU). We are prepared to tailor a private medical charter flight to your specific needs once we learn more about the patient’s symptoms, as well as your pickup and drop-off locations.

When to Request Private Infectious Disease Transports

AirCARE1 recommends infectious disease transports for the following situations:

  • Commercial flight risk: If you or a loved one is suffering from a contagious disease that could easily be transferred to other passengers on a commercial flight, infectious disease transport poses a lower risk.
  • Illness while traveling: Some patients become ill while traveling abroad. Our services are helpful when traveling back to the United States is preferred for receiving specialized care.
  • Immunocompromised patient: You could find yourself in a scenario where someone suffering from an infectious disease is also waiting for an organ transplant or has cancer. AirCARE1 reduces the chances of further infection.
  • Coinciding mental illness: Many patients who have an infectious disease and a mental illness benefit from flying long distances in a less stimulating environment. Manage infectious illness symptoms with constant monitoring.
  • Direct flight options: Some commercial airlines may not allow individuals with infectious diseases to board flights. Additionally, large flights may not travel near destination sites. AirCARE1 travels to a long list of airports nationwide.

How Our Portable Isolation Chambers Work

AirCARE1 has the capability to transport patients with infectious diseases inside two types of isolation units approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration — the full-body ISO-VAC unit and the Amron NIV Hood. Both units are designed to transport patients with any infectious disease, preventing the spread of the disease while keeping the patient available for monitoring.

ISO-VAC Portable Patient Isolation Unit

The transparent ISO-VAC unit allows medical personnel to see the patient, and the sealing membrane minimizes the risk of cross-contamination.

The unit also features:

  • Gloved arms for safe interaction and minimal interventions.
  • A ventilation system that manages contaminated air.
  • A high-quality pressure-sealing zipper.
  • Medical pass-through ports for monitor cables, oxygen tubing and IV tubing.
  • Straps, harnesses, and buckles to secure the patient to attach the unit to a stretcher system.

Diseases the unit can help contain include:

  • COVID-19
  • H5N1
  • SARS

We follow a strict transportation process to ensure the safety of patients, crew members and others:

  1. Patients are placed in the isolation chamber.
  2. The chamber is pressurized through a negative pressure system that mitigates the risk of transmission.
  3. The medical crew monitors patients through openings in the sealing membrane, providing medical interventions if necessary throughout transport.
  4. Once the patient is safely transported, the chamber and aircraft are cleaned and sanitized with an aerosol fogging system.

Amron NIV Hood

This hyperbaric oxygen treatment hood is a helmet-based ventilation system. It encloses the patient’s head to contain infected airflow while allowing the patient to move more freely and be more comfortable. The hood comprises two pieces that rest over the head and shoulders and enable our medical crew to access the patient quickly when needed.

The Amron NIV Hood is particularly helpful in containing respiratory diseases such as SARS and COVID-19. Its large opening enables it to fit all patients, providing security and comfort for those who need transport.

Why You May Need an Isolation Chamber Transport

Patients with infectious diseases may require an isolation chamber transport to travel to a certain doctor or a hospital with specialized capabilities as soon as possible. Our medical flights can transport patients quickly and efficiently, ensuring they arrive at their destinations safely to receive personalized care.

Transporting those with an infectious disease requires specific and specialized training and equipment. Certain precautions must be followed to ensure safety, which a medical flight company like AirCARE1 is equipped to handle. We have the qualified isolation chamber capabilities to ensure we follow appropriate procedures and maintain best practices.

Schedule an Infectious Disease Transport

When you need reliable transport for a patient with an infectious disease, AirCARE1 can help. Our team will ensure the comfort and safety of everyone involved in the infectious disease transport process. Contact us today to request a quote and learn what to expect from our medical transportation services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our units are designed to transport patients with infectious diseases like COVID-19, H5N1 and SARS. We cannot transport patients with active Ebola or tuberculosis (TB) infections.

Once the patient is safely transported, the chamber and aircraft are cleaned and sanitized with an aerosol fogging system.

Strict transportation process to ensure the safety of patients, crew members, and others, including pressurizing the chamber through a negative pressure system.

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    Posted on Google Google
    Kari Hazen profile picture
    Kari Hazen
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Amazing staff that clearly explains options and listens to customers. Thank you so much for clarifying all of our questions during a difficult time.
    Posted on Google Google
    Brett Johnston profile picture
    Brett Johnston
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    My wife had a terrible bike accident in the mountains. Had no idea how I would get my wife moved from the mountains back to home for a much needed surgery. From the moment Valerie answered the first call from me, to Daniel and Rachel answering so many questions. Then Tom and Todd showed up to get my wife from point to point via airlift. I cannot tell you all I went through to get to the point to have to call AirCARE1, but once I did they took over and solved a difficult problem for me. I am sorry if you have to ever do this, but if you do, I wouldn’t hesitate to use them.
    Posted on Google Google
    Uri Ravel profile picture
    Uri Ravel
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I wish to convey my deep appreciation to Debbie Rehn, the nurse who accompanied me, for the professional services she provided during my travel to Israel. Debbie was devoted, knowledgeable, and very attentive to my considerable physical and emotional needs. Debbie demonstrated a highly caring and professional approach to the patient under her care, and this reassured me and my husband that I was under the best care possible for the duration of our international travel. Thank you, Valerie, for your excellent coordination of the complex arrangements that had to be completed in preparation for our flight. It was a difficult period for us, and your devotion to our travel needs helped us to succeed in our objectives. To Valeria and Debbie, thank you for being there to help us through a difficult and challenging time.
    Posted on Google Google
    Jim Guiffre profile picture
    Jim Guiffre
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Imagine getting the phone call telling you your 10 year old grandson has been bitten by a shark off the coast of Mexico. Not even knowing the details about the extensive damage that he had suffered, our immediate instinct was that we needed to get him back home ASAP. It’s Friday afternoon. Where do we even start? An internet search and one phone call to AirCare1 proved to be a Godsend. Dan, the flight operations manager on duty, was so calm and reassuring about explaining the process of arranging the flight. I must have called him 15 times because I would always think of one more question. When he explained to me that we needed to get the Mexican hospital to agree to release Dillon and Children’s Hospital in Denver needed to agree to accept him before we could book the flight, my only thought was how am I ever going to do that? As it turned out, I didn’t have to do that. The team at AirCare1 did it all.. We got word the next morning the hospitals were in agreement, the ambulance in Mexico to pick him up and the ambulance in Colorado to deliver him were both booked, and the flight crew was ready. Sunday was Dillon-Day, Dillon was coming home! The medical personnel met the ambulance at the Cancun airport, picked Dillon up at the hospital and were with him every minute until he was delivered to Children’s. How reassuring. Even more reassuring was the communication from the team on the day of the flight, keeping us informed of the progress of the crew all day long, from takeoff at 6 am in Phoenix to arrival at Children’s Hospital that night, the communication was outstanding! Probably the biggest attribute of the team at AirCare1 was each team member was absolutely invested in getting Dillon home. Dan, by his demeaner, took a huge burden off our shoulders. By patiently and calmly explaining the process, we knew exactly what was necessary to get the plan in place. Camber and Doug, the pilots, executed their mission flawlessly including cutting into the weather delay they experienced leaving Mexico to get Dillon home ASAP.. Jen, the flight nurse and Ryan, the paramedic, took such unbelievable care of Dillon. They got him comfortable, inspected his wounds, and prepared him for the planned triage in Denver. Both were so attentive the whole time they were with him. What an incredible team Dillon had. Everyone’s goal and focus was on him. Our family will be forever grateful to everyone at AirCare1 for their expertise and commitment to Dillon and our family. Thank you all!! You are the best!! Jim & Terrie Guiffre
    Posted on Google Google
    Sheila Alverson profile picture
    Sheila Alverson
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Amazing experience from getting a quote online very quickly, to answering all my questions and concerns. Everything from beginning to the arrival was timely. Personal call informing me when my family member was safely on the plane and in the air and when they landed and he was transported safely to the hospital. I was convinced customer care and support was a thing of the past. It isn’t with this company.
    Posted on Google Google
    Katherine West profile picture
    Katherine West
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    When I purchased air evac insurance I never imagined actually using it, but I couldn't have asked for a more wonderful experience than with AirCARE1! Natalie, Jenn and my pilots got me home quickly, comfortably and with attentive care. THANK YOU!!
    Posted on Google Google
    Debora Bridges profile picture
    Debora Bridges
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    We are so grateful to everyone at Air Care 1 for their professionalism and kindness in helping us get our dad out of Jamaica and back to Scottsdale—in less than 48 hrs. From the initial phone call and immediate action, to the thorough paperwork, contacting doctors, hospitals and the financial process, , everything was streamlined and efficient. Throughout the flight, they kept us updated on the condition of our dad through phone calls, emails and text messages as well as flight status every step of the way. Landing right on time, the ground ambulance was fully prepared and equipped. They even followed up with us after he checked into the hospital and a few days later. This company exceeded our expectations. The highly trained professionals ranged from Valerie at the front desk to the flight paramedic Natalie, the two pilots and Chris who drove the ground ambulance. Emotions were high and our family can’t be more grateful for this team who truly helped to save his life.
    Posted on Google Google
    Tino Rios profile picture
    Tino Rios
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    The process, team, and overall experience was amazing and made a horrible situation that much easier!
    Posted on Google Google
    Marilyn Taylor profile picture
    Marilyn Taylor
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I could not have been more satisfied with AirCARE1. We needed them to transfer my husband from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.They came down the same day. The flight crew was awesome from start to finish. They really cared
    Posted on Google Google
    Barbara Meadows profile picture
    Barbara Meadows
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    From the administration to flight operations to the entire crew our experience with AirCARE1 was exceptional! They were professional and understanding during one of the most difficult times in my and my mother's lives. The air crew was so very caring and ensured that my mother was in the best of hands and cared for me as well! We had a very smooth flight at the hands of the professional and friendly pilots. I cannot express my thanks to Randy and Jenn for ensuring my mother's medical care was top notch. I would recommend AirCARE1 to anyone! Thank you all so much! Barb Meadows and my mom Elizabeth.

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    Testimonials

    At AirCARE1, we’re proud to provide exceptional medical escort services. Our clients often share their positive experiences with our medical travel companions and commercial medical escort service. Read what they have to say:

    Click on the circles above to explore our testimonials

    Google Reviews

    Posted on Google Google
    Kari Hazen profile picture
    Kari Hazen
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Amazing staff that clearly explains options and listens to customers. Thank you so much for clarifying all of our questions during a difficult time.
    Posted on Google Google
    Brett Johnston profile picture
    Brett Johnston
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    My wife had a terrible bike accident in the mountains. Had no idea how I would get my wife moved from the mountains back to home for a much needed surgery. From the moment Valerie answered the first call from me, to Daniel and Rachel answering so many questions. Then Tom and Todd showed up to get my wife from point to point via airlift. I cannot tell you all I went through to get to the point to have to call AirCARE1, but once I did they took over and solved a difficult problem for me. I am sorry if you have to ever do this, but if you do, I wouldn’t hesitate to use them.
    Posted on Google Google
    Uri Ravel profile picture
    Uri Ravel
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I wish to convey my deep appreciation to Debbie Rehn, the nurse who accompanied me, for the professional services she provided during my travel to Israel. Debbie was devoted, knowledgeable, and very attentive to my considerable physical and emotional needs. Debbie demonstrated a highly caring and professional approach to the patient under her care, and this reassured me and my husband that I was under the best care possible for the duration of our international travel. Thank you, Valerie, for your excellent coordination of the complex arrangements that had to be completed in preparation for our flight. It was a difficult period for us, and your devotion to our travel needs helped us to succeed in our objectives. To Valeria and Debbie, thank you for being there to help us through a difficult and challenging time.
    Posted on Google Google
    Jim Guiffre profile picture
    Jim Guiffre
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Imagine getting the phone call telling you your 10 year old grandson has been bitten by a shark off the coast of Mexico. Not even knowing the details about the extensive damage that he had suffered, our immediate instinct was that we needed to get him back home ASAP. It’s Friday afternoon. Where do we even start? An internet search and one phone call to AirCare1 proved to be a Godsend. Dan, the flight operations manager on duty, was so calm and reassuring about explaining the process of arranging the flight. I must have called him 15 times because I would always think of one more question. When he explained to me that we needed to get the Mexican hospital to agree to release Dillon and Children’s Hospital in Denver needed to agree to accept him before we could book the flight, my only thought was how am I ever going to do that? As it turned out, I didn’t have to do that. The team at AirCare1 did it all.. We got word the next morning the hospitals were in agreement, the ambulance in Mexico to pick him up and the ambulance in Colorado to deliver him were both booked, and the flight crew was ready. Sunday was Dillon-Day, Dillon was coming home! The medical personnel met the ambulance at the Cancun airport, picked Dillon up at the hospital and were with him every minute until he was delivered to Children’s. How reassuring. Even more reassuring was the communication from the team on the day of the flight, keeping us informed of the progress of the crew all day long, from takeoff at 6 am in Phoenix to arrival at Children’s Hospital that night, the communication was outstanding! Probably the biggest attribute of the team at AirCare1 was each team member was absolutely invested in getting Dillon home. Dan, by his demeaner, took a huge burden off our shoulders. By patiently and calmly explaining the process, we knew exactly what was necessary to get the plan in place. Camber and Doug, the pilots, executed their mission flawlessly including cutting into the weather delay they experienced leaving Mexico to get Dillon home ASAP.. Jen, the flight nurse and Ryan, the paramedic, took such unbelievable care of Dillon. They got him comfortable, inspected his wounds, and prepared him for the planned triage in Denver. Both were so attentive the whole time they were with him. What an incredible team Dillon had. Everyone’s goal and focus was on him. Our family will be forever grateful to everyone at AirCare1 for their expertise and commitment to Dillon and our family. Thank you all!! You are the best!! Jim & Terrie Guiffre
    Posted on Google Google
    Sheila Alverson profile picture
    Sheila Alverson
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    Amazing experience from getting a quote online very quickly, to answering all my questions and concerns. Everything from beginning to the arrival was timely. Personal call informing me when my family member was safely on the plane and in the air and when they landed and he was transported safely to the hospital. I was convinced customer care and support was a thing of the past. It isn’t with this company.
    Posted on Google Google
    Katherine West profile picture
    Katherine West
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    When I purchased air evac insurance I never imagined actually using it, but I couldn't have asked for a more wonderful experience than with AirCARE1! Natalie, Jenn and my pilots got me home quickly, comfortably and with attentive care. THANK YOU!!
    Posted on Google Google
    Debora Bridges profile picture
    Debora Bridges
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    We are so grateful to everyone at Air Care 1 for their professionalism and kindness in helping us get our dad out of Jamaica and back to Scottsdale—in less than 48 hrs. From the initial phone call and immediate action, to the thorough paperwork, contacting doctors, hospitals and the financial process, , everything was streamlined and efficient. Throughout the flight, they kept us updated on the condition of our dad through phone calls, emails and text messages as well as flight status every step of the way. Landing right on time, the ground ambulance was fully prepared and equipped. They even followed up with us after he checked into the hospital and a few days later. This company exceeded our expectations. The highly trained professionals ranged from Valerie at the front desk to the flight paramedic Natalie, the two pilots and Chris who drove the ground ambulance. Emotions were high and our family can’t be more grateful for this team who truly helped to save his life.
    Posted on Google Google
    Tino Rios profile picture
    Tino Rios
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    The process, team, and overall experience was amazing and made a horrible situation that much easier!
    Posted on Google Google
    Marilyn Taylor profile picture
    Marilyn Taylor
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    I could not have been more satisfied with AirCARE1. We needed them to transfer my husband from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.They came down the same day. The flight crew was awesome from start to finish. They really cared
    Posted on Google Google
    Barbara Meadows profile picture
    Barbara Meadows
    Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
    From the administration to flight operations to the entire crew our experience with AirCARE1 was exceptional! They were professional and understanding during one of the most difficult times in my and my mother's lives. The air crew was so very caring and ensured that my mother was in the best of hands and cared for me as well! We had a very smooth flight at the hands of the professional and friendly pilots. I cannot express my thanks to Randy and Jenn for ensuring my mother's medical care was top notch. I would recommend AirCARE1 to anyone! Thank you all so much! Barb Meadows and my mom Elizabeth.

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