Air ambulances grounded after two mid-air scares

Two of Ambulance Victoria’s five emergency helicopters have been grounded after a side window fell out during two separate flights.

Neil Mitchell revealed this morning Ambulance Victoria grounded the helicopters on Tuesday night, after two incidents where a window popped out.

On both occasions, no patients were on board.

“They’re hoping to get them back in the air later today,” Neil said.

The first incident occurred about 1.30pm on Sunday near Rokewood.

The window was repaired but dislodged while flying over Elwood about 4.30pm on Tuesday.

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Ambulance Victoria sought immediate assurances from the helicopter manufacturer, Leonardo, and the operator, Babcock, that our fleet of helicopters is safe to fly.

Helicopter manufacturer Babcock identified the two helicopters may have been fitted with potentially faulty window seals during recent routine maintenance.

Babcock has since sourced and fitted new window seals.