The Norwegian Armed Forces have recently inked a deal with SAS to bolster their strategic air evacuation capabilities. The agreement secures a continuous capacity for strategic air evacuation, utilising SAS’ cutting-edge Airbus A320neo aircraft. The transition from the current aircraft to the new agreement is slated for 2025.
Comprising two key components, the agreement encompasses a collaboration pact to develop an A320neo-based solution and a second agreement for operational assignments. The versatile A320neo, initially a standard passenger plane, can be transformed into a fully equipped flying hospital with medical facilities and hospital beds once the new design is finalised. SAS’ Airbus A320neo boasts approximately 18% lower CO2 emissions than its predecessor, coupled with a remarkable 30% reduction in noise, creating a more comfortable environment for both evacuees and crew.
Drawing on a 25-year legacy of involvement in evacuation missions, SAS has played crucial roles in events such as the Thai tsunami, evacuations from Afghanistan, the Moira refugee camp, and support for Ukrainian patients.
Brigadier General Anders Jernberg, Commander of the Norwegian Defence Logistics Organisation, emphasised the strategic importance of the agreement, stating, “With this agreement, the capacity for evacuation and repatriation of sick or wounded civilians and military personnel, including intensive care patients, is strengthened for national and international operations, from and to airports in all parts of the world.” The initiative establishes capacity for two medical evacuation aircraft, supplementing the Armed Forces’ existing resources.
