Richmond, BC, December 06, 2006: Helijet International Inc. has been selected to negotiate a $15 million, long term contract to operate a dedicated Learjet air ambulance for the British Columbia Ambulance Service, under the Ministry of Health.

The Bombardier Learjet 31A will be dedicated to routine patient transfers, seven days a week, while based at Helijet’s YVR South Terminal hangar. The aircraft is presently at Helijet’s maintenance facilities undergoing modifications for its January start date.

“We’re looking forward to operating this new aircraft and expanding our commitment to the BC Ambulance Service,” said Rick Hill, Helijet’s Vice President, Marketing and Product. “It’s faster, has a greater range, and compared to existing out-of-Province air ambulance equipment, this jet will significantly reduce the time it takes to transfer critical care patients from outlying communities to and from Vancouver. That means faster, more efficient patient care for British Columbians.”

Helijet’s Learjet 31A air ambulance specifications:

·High speed cruise: 858km/h
·Maximum operating altitude: 15,545 m (51,000 ft)
·Maximum range: 2,695 km (1,455 nm)
·2 patient and 3 paramedic capacity

The new Learjet is Helijet’s fifth medically equipped aircraft to enter service. The Richmond-based carrier presently operates two fixed-wing King Air 200 turbo-props and two Sikorsky S-76 helicopters exclusively for the British Columbia Air Ambulance Service.

Helijet International is a Canadian-owned company, and is North America's largest scheduled helicopter airline, as well as British Columbia’s largest air medical service provider.

Helijet is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and has won numerous awards for outstanding customer service, as well as its safety record. This fall, Helijet will offer up to 176 flights each week between Vancouver, Victoria and YVR, with passengers able to book online at www.helijet.com.

For photos or more information, contact:

Rick Hill
Vice President, Marketing and Product Development 
Helijet International Inc.
T: 604 231 3511
rickhill@helijet.com