Doctors in air ambulance operations do far more than consult from afar—they plan, lead, and deliver care during high-stakes missions. On National Doctors’ Day, we’re spotlighting how physicians work with flight teams to keep patients safe across cities, borders, and time zones.
Where doctors fit on the team
In some systems, physicians fly to scenes in helicopters to stabilize patients before transport. Elsewhere, doctors join fixed-wing missions for complex cases, high-risk transfers, or neonatal and cardiac flights. Their presence elevates decision-making, advanced procedures, and in-flight oversight. For context on the full crew mix, see Who Are the Medical Professionals on an Air Ambulance Team? and Air Ambulance Flight Nurse Responsibilities.
Before wheels up: medical direction and planning
Physicians review records, determine “fit-to-fly,” and set the clinical plan. They specify medications, monitoring, and equipment, and brief the flight clinicians. For a step-by-step view of the transfer process, read How Does Air Medical Transport Work? A Step-by-Step Guide for Families.
In flight: procedures and critical decisions
During transport, doctors may perform or direct advanced airway management, titrate vasoactive drips, and guide ventilator strategies. They also coordinate with receiving specialists to reduce door-to-treatment times. If you’re comparing options for a loved one, start with Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Air Ambulance Provider.
Rural and international missions
Distance and terrain can block timely care. In rural regions, physicians partner with air crews to bridge that gap. On international routes, they help navigate medication formularies, documentation, and handoffs between systems. When the goal is to get a patient home, see What Is Medical Repatriation?.
Non-emergency transfers and continuity
Not every mission is a 911 call. Doctors often guide non-emergency flights for surgeries, specialized treatments, or end-of-life wishes. Their direction keeps care consistent from bedside to bedside and ensures the receiving team is ready on arrival.
Our thanks
Since 1980, we’ve partnered with physicians across the U.S. and abroad. Their expertise—alongside our flight nurses and paramedics—has helped thousands of patients reach the right care at the right time.