UVA Health Pegasus helicopter

Vehicles & Crew

Our transport network, often called Pegasus, provides care to critically ill or injured patients via either an air or ground transport service.

Pegasus Air

This Airbus EC-145C2e helicopter operates primarily within a 120–nautical mile radius of Charlottesville.  

Pegasus:

  • Uses night vision goggles for all flights conducted at night
  • Is single-pilot, IFR rated 
  • Is equipped with color weather radar 

All of our pilots are highly skilled and undergo rigorous proficiency training. We maintain our own maintenance facility with two full-time mechanics; all aircraft are hangared. We use a backup helicopter with several other Medevac programs in the region when the primary helicopter requires maintenance.

Operations Management

All pilots, mechanics, and aviation services are provided to Pegasus through Metro Aviation, which holds the FAA Part 135 Certificate.

Pegasus Ground

Our ambulance was specially designed for critical care transport.

Pegasus crew members spend about one-third of their shifts staffing this vehicle. Based at the University Hospital in Charlottesville, Pegasus Ground has responded to inter-facility, on-scene and mass-casualty incidents in both Virginia and West Virginia.

Pegasus Crew

uva pegasus emergency helicopter

The medical crew configuration consists of a registered nurse and a critical care paramedic. If necessary, other crew configurations may be used when patient condition or mission requirements dictate. 

Medical crew members are trained in all aspects of emergency care, including advanced life support and the use of specialty devices. All crew members have the capability to transport all types of patients.

Medical crew members maintain certifications or experience in:

  • Cardiac care
  • Trauma care
  • Pediatric care
  • Intra-aortic balloon pumps
  • Ventricular assist devices
  • Ventilators

Why the Name Pegasus?

When the program started, we held a contest at the medical center to determine its name. The name Pegasus won. One reason for the choice: Because of stories of the mythical Pegasus carrying wounded soldiers from battles and saving lives. While our program has undergone many changes since its inception, the winged steed adorning the side of the helicopter has remained constant.