Friday, 31 October 2025

Air Ambulance service in India



When every second counts, trust VMEDO to provide the fastest and most reliable air ambulance services in India. Equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities and staffed by expert healthcare professionals, our air ambulances ensure critical patients receive timely care, even in the most remote locations. Whether it’s an emergency evacuation, inter-hospital transfer, or organ transport, VMEDO’s 24/7 operational support and seamless booking process make us your trusted partner in saving lives.

For booking, call us now at 9343-180000 and let our dedicated team handle the rest. You can also visit www.vmedo.com or download the VMEDO for instant access to emergency medical services.

What is an Air Ambulance?

An air ambulance is a specially equipped aircraft designed to transport patients who require urgent medical attention. These aircraft are fitted with advanced medical equipment, including ventilators, defibrillators, oxygen supplies, and monitoring devices, and are staffed by trained medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, and paramedics. Air ambulances can be helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft, depending on the distance and terrain of the mission.

In India, air ambulance services are increasingly being recognized as a vital component of the healthcare ecosystem, especially for critical care, organ transplants, and emergency evacuations from remote or inaccessible areas.

Types of Air ambulance services available in India

When you are planning to transfer a patient by air ambulance you have two options. You can choose the most appropriate mode of air ambulance based on your requirement

Private Air Ambulance Services:

Private air ambulances are dedicated medical aircraft specifically equipped to transport critically ill or injured patients. These aircraft are staffed with highly trained medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, who provide specialized medical care during transport. Private air ambulances offer several advantages, including:

1. Rapid Response:

Private air ambulances can be deployed quickly to respond to medical emergencies, bypassing ground traffic and reaching remote or inaccessible locations.

2. Specialized Medical Equipment:

Private air ambulances are equipped with advanced medical equipment and facilities, including intensive care units (ICUs), ventilators, cardiac monitors, and emergency medications, to ensure comprehensive medical care during transport.

3. Customized Care:

Private air ambulances offer customized medical care tailored to the specific needs of the patient. Medical personnel onboard can administer advanced treatments, perform procedures, and monitor vital signs continuously throughout the journey.

4. Flexibility and Accessibility:

Private air ambulances can access remote airstrips, helipads, and airports, allowing for direct transportation to specialized medical facilities, including hospitals and trauma centers, both within India and internationally

Patient Transport by Commercial Flight:

In cases where the patient’s condition is stable and does not require intensive medical intervention during transport, patient transport by commercial flight may be a viable option. This involves arranging for a medical escort or stretcher service on a scheduled commercial airline flight. Key features of patient transport by commercial flight include:

1. Cost-Effective Option:

Patient transport by commercial flight is often more cost-effective compared to private air ambulances, making it accessible to a broader range of individuals, including those with non-critical medical needs or financial constraints.

2. Scheduled Departures: 

Patient transport by commercial flight operates on scheduled airline flights, allowing for greater flexibility in terms of departure times, destinations, and routes. This can be advantageous for patients requiring long-distance transfers or international repatriation.

3. Medical Escort Services:

Trained medical escorts accompany patients during commercial flights, providing medical supervision, assistance with activities of daily living, medication administration, and monitoring of vital signs throughout the journey.

4. Assistance with Ground Transportation:

Medical escort services typically include assistance with ground ambulance to and from the airport, ensuring seamless transfer between medical facilities and airports.

How to Book an Air Ambulance Service in India:

  1. Call the VMEDO Helpline
    Dial 9343-180000 to speak with VMEDO’s emergency response team. Provide details about the patient’s condition, location, and destination.

  2. Share Medical Information
    Provide the patient’s medical reports and doctor’s recommendations to help VMEDO arrange the appropriate medical team and equipment.

  3. Receive Service Confirmation & Cost Estimate
    VMEDO will assess the urgency, route, and medical needs, then provide an estimated cost and confirmation of the air ambulance arrangement.

  4. Complete Booking & Make Payment
    Once you confirm, complete the booking by making the necessary payment via secure online or offline methods.

  5. Patient Transfer & Assistance
    VMEDO will coordinate the entire transfer, including ground ambulance support, ensuring safe and timely transportation to the destination hospital.

Documents required to transfer patient by air ambulance:

  1. Fit to Fly certificate  From treating doctor 
  2. clearance certificate from treating hospital 
  3. Patient ID proof and Address Proof
  4. Copy of Patient medical insurance ( if applicable ) 
  5. Copy of passport and visa ( for international air transfers ) 
  6. Copy of Medical history and relevant documents 
  7. COVID-19 negative report from patient and passengers ( subjected to regulation )
  8. Consent form from patient or guardian 

Cost for Air ambulance service in India:

Type of Air AmbulanceEstimated Cost (INR)
Domestic (Within India)₹2.5 lakh – ₹8 lakh
International (From India to Abroad)₹15 lakh – ₹50 lakh
Helicopter Ambulance₹1.5 lakh – ₹4 lakh per hour
Chartered Air Ambulance₹5 lakh – ₹15 lakh
Commercial Stretcher Service (On Scheduled Flights)₹3 lakh – ₹10 lakh

    Types of Air ambulances available in India:

    1. Fixed wing Air ambulance: A fixed-wing air ambulance refers to an aircraft specifically designed and equipped to provide medical transportation services over long distances. Fixed-wing air ambulances are equipped with medical facilities and equipment to provide comprehensive care during transport. These facilities may include stretchers, medical supplies, monitoring equipment, and sometimes even surgical capabilities, depending on the level of care required.
    2. Helicopter: A helicopter air ambulance rapidly transports patients in emergencies. It carries essential medical equipment, including stretchers, monitoring devices, and life-saving supplies. Medical teams use it to transfer critically ill or injured patients from accident sites to hospitals or between hospitals for specialized care.
    3. Hybrid Air ambulance: A hybrid air ambulance combines the features of both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters to offer a versatile and adaptable solution for medical transportation. Hybrid air ambulances are well-suited for a variety of medical transport missions, including inter-hospital transfers.
    4. STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing): STOL stands for Short Takeoff and Landing, a term used to describe aircraft that are capable of taking off and landing in a short distance. These aircraft typically feature high-lift devices such as leading-edge slats, trailing-edge flaps, and sometimes even blown flaps or powered lift systems to generate additional lift at low speeds.

    Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ’s) on Air ambulance service in India

    1. What types of medical emergencies require air ambulance services?

    • People use air ambulance services for critical medical emergencies, including trauma, cardiac arrests, neurological conditions, obstetric complications, urgent organ transplants, and neonatal care.

    2. What are the different types of air ambulances available in India?

    • Air ambulance services in India may include helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft (such as jets and turboprops), and rotary-wing aircraft (such as helicopters). These aircraft are equipped with advanced medical equipment and staffed with trained medical personnel to provide comprehensive medical care during transport.

    3. Is insurance coverage available for air ambulance services in India?

    • Insurance coverage for air ambulance services in India may vary depending on the type of insurance policy, provider network, and terms of coverage. Travel insurance, health insurance, or specialized medical evacuation insurance may partially or fully cover the cost of air ambulance services. It is recommended to review your insurance policy or consult with your insurance provider regarding coverage for air ambulance services.

    4. How fast can providers deploy an air ambulance in India?

    • The deployment time for an air ambulance in India depends on factors such as the availability of aircraft, medical personnel, weather conditions, and logistical considerations. In emergency situations, air ambulances can be deployed swiftly to ensure timely transportation of patients to medical facilities.

    5. Can air ambulances in India operate at night or in adverse weather conditions?

    • Yes, many air ambulance services in India operate at night and in adverse weather conditions. However, trained pilots and medical teams assess weather forecasts and risks to determine flight safety and feasibility.

    6. What type of medical personnel are typically onboard air ambulances in India?

    • Air ambulances in India may be staffed with a range of medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). The composition of the medical team depends on the level of medical care required by the patient and the specific services offered by the air ambulance provider. 

    7. Can air ambulances in India transport patients internationally?

    • Yes, air ambulances in India can transport patients internationally to medical facilities in other countries. This service, known as international medical repatriation, involves coordination with receiving medical facilities, immigration authorities, and aviation authorities in both the departure and destination countries.

    8. Can air ambulances carry dead bodies ?

    • Air ambulances are intended to carry patients only, not dead bodies. However, one can choose to transport dead body by air cargo in commercial flight from one place to another place

    9. Which all the cities VMEDO air ambulance service operates?

    Human Remains Transportation Service in India

    Losing a loved one is never easy, and arranging for their final journey shouldn’t add to your burden. That’s where VMEDO steps in—with end-to-end human remains transportation services in India. Whether it’s within the city, inter-state, or even international repatriation, VMEDO takes care of everything—from documentation, embalming, and coffin sealing to hearse van or air cargo arrangements. With 24/7 support, trained professionals, and strict compliance with all government regulations, we ensure a dignified, hassle-free transfer so families can focus on what truly matters—saying goodbye with love and peace. Call VMEDO at 9343180000 and let us handle the rest with care and compassion.

    What is Human Remains Transportation?

    Human remains transportation refers to the movement of a deceased person’s body from one location to another—within a city, between states, or internationally. This service is essential when a person dies away from their hometown, or when the final rites are to be conducted elsewhere.

    Modes of Transport:

    1. By Road: Hearse vans or ambulance vehicles for short to medium distances.
    2. By RailTransportation by train available but rarely used due to logistical complexities.
    3. By Air: For long distances or international repatriation.

    Types of Human Remains Transportation Services Offered by VMEDO

    1. Local Body Transport (Within City Limits)
      • Done using a hearse van or ambulance.
      • Includes hospital to home or home to crematorium transport.
    2. Inter-State Transport
      • Includes embalming, body sealing, and documentation.
      • VMEDO coordinates with local and destination authorities.
    3. Air Cargo Services (Domestic/International)
      • End-to-end service including booking with Domestic/International airlines, documentation, embalming, and coffin packaging.

    Step-by-Step Procedure to Transport Human Remains in India

    1. Obtain the Death Certificate

    • Issued by the hospital or local municipal authorities.
    • Mandatory for any kind of transport, burial, or cremation.
    • For deaths at home, a certified doctor must confirm and issue a cause of death.

    2. Postmortem (If Required)

    • Mandatory if the cause of death is suspicious, unknown, or accidental.
    • Conducted at a government-authorized hospital.
    • A postmortem report is required in such cases.

    3. Police NOC (If Applicable)

    • In cases involving unnatural or accidental death, a No Objection Certificate from the police is required for transport.

    4. Embalming the Body

    • Compulsory for long-distance or air transport to preserve the body.
    • Performed by certified embalmers at a recognized facility.
    • The embalming certificate is issued after completion.

    5. Coffin Packaging and Sealing

    • The embalmed body is placed in a sealed, air-tight coffin (usually wooden).
    • A coffin box certificate is provided by the undertaker or authorized personnel.

    6. Obtain Transit Permit / NOC

    • Issued by the municipal corporation or local health officer.
    • Required for inter-state or air transport.
    • States like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi, and Karnataka have their own NOC procedures.

    7. Airline Booking and Clearance (for Air Transport)

    • The coffin must be booked as cargo.
    • Requires:
      • Death certificate
      • Embalming certificate
      • Police clearance (if applicable)
      • Coffin box certificate
      • Consignee and consignee ID proof
    • VMEDO coordinates with airline cargo departments for timely booking.

    Documents Required for Human Remains Transport

    DocumentPurpose
    Death CertificatePrimary legal document to confirm death
    Postmortem ReportRequired in unnatural death cases
    Embalming CertificateProof of preservation of body
    Coffin Box CertificateConfirms sealed and approved coffin packaging
    Police Clearance/NOCNeeded in case of accidental or suspicious deaths
    Transit PermitLegal permission to transport across jurisdictions
    ID Proof of ReceiverRequired at the destination for body release
    Flight Booking DocumentsFor air transport, including Air Waybill and booking receipt

    Government Rules and Guidelines for Human Remains Transport

    A. Inter-State Transportation (by Road)

    • Death Certificate: Essential for all cases.

    • Embalming Certificate: Required for long road journeys.

    • Transit Permit/NOC: Issued by municipal/local health authorities.

    • COVID Protocols (if applicable): Body bags, PPE kits, and sanitization during pandemics.

    B. By Air (Domestic Flights)

    According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and airport guidelines:

    • Body must be embalmed and sealed.

    • Transit permit required.

    • Booking must be done with cargo division (not passenger check-in).

    • Advance notice (usually 6–8 hours) to airline is mandatory.

    • Body must be received by an authorized person with ID proof at the destination.

    C. International Repatriation (Sending Human Remains Abroad)

    • Passport of deceased (cancelled by embassy).

    • Embassy NOC and clearance from Ministry of External Affairs.

    • Local police clearance.

    • Embalming and coffin certificate.

    • Airway Bill (AWB) for air cargo.

    VMEDO works closely with consulates, embassies, and airlines to manage all formalities in such cases.

    Challenges in Human Remains Transportation in India

    • Bureaucratic Delays: NOC issuance or police clearance can be time-consuming.
    • Emotional Trauma: Families are often overwhelmed and unaware of the process.
    • Unfamiliarity with Rules: Especially for air or cross-border repatriation.
    • Lack of Coordinated Services: Many struggle to manage ambulance, embalming, and paperwork separately.

    Coverage Areas

    VMEDO provides human remains transport services in:

    • Bangalore
    • Chennai
    • Hyderabad
    • Mumbai
    • Delhi
    • Ahmedabad
    • Pune
    • Kolkata
    • Across all major airports and inter-state routes in India

    Dead body transportation from India to other countries



    If you’re facing the overwhelming task of transporting a loved one’s mortal remains from India to another country, let VMEDO shoulder the burden for you with care, dignity, and professionalism. We specialize in end-to-end international dead body transportation, handling everything from embalming and documentation to airline booking and embassy clearances. With 24×7 support, experienced coordinators, and complete transparency, VMEDO ensures a smooth, respectful repatriation process during one of life’s most difficult moments. Trust VMEDO to bring your loved one home—no matter the distance. Call us anytime at +91-9343-180000 or visit www.vmedo.com for immediate assistance

    What Is International Dead Body Transportation?

    International dead body transportation refers to the transfer of human remains (mortal remains) from one country to another via air cargo. In India, this process is regulated by various government departments, including:

    When and Why Is International Repatriation Required?

    Some of the most common scenarios that require international repatriation of mortal remains include:

    • Death of an Indian citizen living abroad who passed away while visiting India
    • Foreign nationals who die during their stay in India
    • Indian expatriates whose families wish to perform final rites in their home country
    • Individuals whose remains need to be buried or cremated as per religious or cultural traditions

    Step-by-Step Procedure for Dead Body Transportation from India to Another Country

    Step 1: Obtain Death Certificate

    The first and foremost step is to obtain a death certificate from the local municipal authority or hospital. This certificate is a legal document that confirms the death and must include the cause of death.

    Documents needed:

    • Medical cause of death from the hospital
    • Identification documents of the deceased
    • Identification of next of kin

    Step 2: Police Clearance & No Objection Certificate (NOC)

    In case of unnatural or sudden death (accident, suicide, etc.), an FIR and postmortem report are mandatory. The local police station will issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) after investigation.

    In natural deaths, a police NOC may still be required depending on the jurisdiction.

    Step 3: Embalming the Body

    Before transporting the body internationally, embalming is mandatory to preserve the body and avoid decomposition. The embalming should be done by a certified mortuary and documented.

    Post-embalming requirements:

    • Embalming certificate
    • Body sealed in a leak-proof zinc-lined coffin
    • Coffin certificate confirming it is sealed and fit for transportation

    Step 4: Clearance from Airport Health Organization (APHO)

    The APHO, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, inspects and verifies the embalming and coffin sealing. They issue a “Clearance for Transport of Human Remains”, which is a critical document required before approaching the airline.

    Step 5: NOC from the Indian Embassy (if required)

    In cases where a foreign national is being repatriated, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their country’s Embassy or Consulate in India is required. For Indian nationals being sent abroad, the destination country’s embassy may need to issue a NOC or approval for entry.

    Step 6: Clearance from the Local Municipal Corporation

    Transit Permit from the municipal corporation (where the death occurred) is also necessary. This acts as permission to transport the body across state or international borders.

    Step 7: Booking Air Cargo Services

    Only select airlines allow transportation of human remains. The body, packed in a certified coffin and accompanied by all documents, is shipped via air cargo to the destination airport.

    You will need to:

    • Book air cargo with the airline’s cargo division
    • Provide them with the coffin dimensions and weight
    • Submit all required documentation
    • Pay air freight charges (based on weight and destination)

    Step 8: Coordination with the Receiving Country

    Ensure that all documents are pre-approved by the receiving country’s embassy or consulate. In some cases, families or funeral agencies at the destination must present import permits or receive clearance for burial/cremation.

    List of Documents Required for International Dead Body Repatriation from India

    DocumentIssued By
    Death CertificateLocal Hospital or Municipal Authority
    Embalming CertificateAuthorized Mortuary
    Coffin CertificateFuneral Home or Coffin Sealing Authority
    Police NOCLocal Police Station
    APHO ClearanceAirport Health Organization
    Transit PermitMunicipal Corporation
    Passport of the Deceased (Cancelled)Immigration Authority
    Consular NOCEmbassy/Consulate of Receiving Country
    Airway Bill & Booking DetailsAirline Cargo Division
    Authorization Letter from Next of KinFamily Member or Legal Representative

    Key Government Bodies Involved

    1. Airport Health Organization (APHO) – Issues final health clearance.
    2. Municipal Authorities – For issuing the death certificate and transit permit.
    3. Police Department – Investigates and clears any legal hurdles.
    4. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) – Assists through Indian consulates abroad.
    5. Embassies/Consulates – Provide the necessary documentation for repatriation.
    6. Airlines – Responsible for cargo booking and safe transportation.

    Important Guidelines & Rules to Follow

    • Embalming must be completed before sealing the coffin.
    • The coffin must be hermetically sealed with a zinc lining.
    • All documents must be in English and notarized if needed.
    • Some countries may require translation of documents.
    • The deceased’s passport must be officially canceled before transportation.
    • Some destinations require the presence of a funeral director at both ends.

    Airlines That Allow Dead Body Transportation

    Some of the major international airlines that allow repatriation of human remains include:

    • Emirates
    • Qatar Airways
    • Lufthansa
    • Air India
    • British Airways
    • Singapore Airlines
    • Etihad Airways
    • Turkish Airlines

    Note: Each airline has its own procedures, packaging standards, and cargo rates. Confirm in advance.

    Costs Involved in International Dead Body Transport

    The cost of transporting a body internationally depends on multiple factors:

    Cost ComponentApproximate Cost
    Embalming and Coffin₹15,000 – ₹40,000
    Documentation and NOC Charges₹5,000 – ₹15,000
    Cargo Booking (Air Freight)₹80,000 – ₹2,50,000+ (based on destination)
    Ambulance Service to Airport₹3,000 – ₹10,000

    How VMEDO Helps in International Dead Body Transportation

    At VMEDO, we offer end-to-end support in transporting mortal remains/dead body from India to any international destination with utmost care and respect. Our services include:

    24×7 Coordination

    We are available around the clock to assist grieving families and guide them through the entire process.

    Documentation Support

    We help families obtain all essential documents such as death certificates, embalming and coffin certificates, NOCs, and APHO clearances.

    Ambulance & Mortuary Arrangements

    VMEDO arranges certified mortuaries for embalming and ambulances for hospital/home-to-airport transport.

    Airline Coordination

    We manage bookings and documentation with major international airlines for smooth air cargo dispatch.

    International Liaison

    We coordinate with the receiving country’s embassy, consulate, and funeral homes as required.

    Transparent Pricing

    All our charges are upfront, and there are no hidden costs.