The first hospital heliport in the country starts operation near Panagyurishte

The first licensed hospital heliport, which will be used to perform flights for emergency medical assistance by air, begins work at the general hospital in the town of Panagyurishte (central Bulgaria). A successful test helicopter landing was also conducted today, November 15.

"Having the first in Bulgaria licensed helicopter landing area, we have the opportunity to respond as quickly as possible in a timely manner when carrying out medical assistance to patients, which is ultimately the goal, because the patient is at the centre of the system. We have the readiness for landing and takeoffs of helicopters that transport patients and are ready to respond. In December, we will now officially have a helicopter engaged in air ambulance," said Yavor Drenski, the hospital manager.

As part of the plan, there will be hospital heliports in Russe, Varna, Pleven, Veliko Turnovo, Plovdiv, Sliven, Stara Zagora, and 3 in Sofia.

The first 6 pilots have already completed their training in Italy, three engineers have also been trained. The first Bulgarian helicopter ambulance is expected to be delivered in December and the second one in June 2024.

The first emergency medical helicopter in Bulgaria starts test flights in November