Medical Rescue Africa (MRA), a subsidiary of Westair Aviation, has launched a new Beechcraft King Air 350i air ambulance, strengthening Namibia’s emergency medical evacuation capability and enhancing response services across Africa.
“A service like this is never needed until it is needed – and then it must be available, safe, and reliable,” said Henri van Schalkwyk, CEO of Westair Aviation.
“The King Air 350 provides the highest standards of safety, capability, and medical care. With the support of our clients and partners, we are ensuring that Namibia remains a leader in aeromedical response services in Africa.”
The newly equipped King Air 350i features advanced medevac facilities, including capacity for two stretchers, life-support systems, and high-tech avionics.
The aircraft’s ability to operate from unpaved runways and cover long distances makes it ideal for reaching remote and challenging environments.
Each MRA aircraft, including the new King Air, is fitted with an approved Med-Pac system and manned by Westair’s experienced pilots and MRA’s specialised medical crew.
All operations comply with the Basic Aviation Risk Standard (BARS), Oil and Gas Producer Standards (IOGP), and United Nations Aviation Standards (UNAVS).
MRA’s range of services includes aeromedical evacuation, ground ambulance transport, specialised training, emergency coordination, remote site telemedicine, and the MRA Mayday Panic Assistance App.
Van Schalkwyk said the new aircraft reflects the company’s long-term investment in safety, reliability, and compassion in medical response.
“It is our collective responsibility to maintain and support the infrastructure of a world-class medical evacuation service,” he said.
“The team at MRA not only runs an exceptional response business but lives with compassion, going above and beyond to save lives. This new aircraft is a symbol of what we can achieve together for Namibia.”
With over 25 years of aeromedical response expertise, Westair Aviation operates from bases in Windhoek, Walvis Bay, Oranjemund, Lüderitz, Senegal, and Mozambique.
Its 24/7 Emergency Response Centre in Windhoek coordinates a diverse fleet of intensive care ambulances, rapid response vehicles, fixed-wing air ambulances, and helicopters for emergency and offshore support.
