Our Story Unfolds
MedAire’s 40-Year Timeline of Achievements
Explore MedAire's remarkable 40-year journey, a testament to our innovative spirit and dedication to safety. Our achievements have saved millions of lives, and we continue to push boundaries with cutting-edge solutions to meet the evolving needs of the aviation and maritime industries.
1985 - MedAire Founded
After an emotional medical event, Flight Nurse Joan Sullivan Garrett was inspired to found MedAire to provide training, equipment and expert support to the aviation industry..jpg?width=300&name=Saturday%2c%20August%2020%2c%202005%20(10).jpg)
1986 - MedAire delivers its first MIII Course
MedAire delivers its first Management of In-Flight Illness and Injury Course to a corporate flight department. This course was designed to equip flight crews with essential medical knowledge and skills tailored for addressing in-flight medical situations. By providing specialised training, MedAire empowered aviation professionals to handle medical incidents confidently and effectively, further enhancing the safety and preparedness of corporate flight departments globally.
1987 - MedLink’s receives its first call
MedLink revolutionised in-flight care with its inaugural call, setting a new standard for real-time medical assistance in aviation. This milestone began with a call from an American Trans Air flight over the Mid-Atlantic, relayed through Stockholm Radio, confirming a passenger was experiencing a heart attack. MedLink's expert recommendation for an immediate diversion led to the passenger's survival, marking the start of significant advancements in passenger safety and support during flights.
1987 - MedAire Publishes Manual of In-Flight Medical Care
The Manual of In-Flight Medical Care, a comprehensive guide designed to equip flight crews with essential medical knowledge and protocols for managing in-flight medical emergencies. This publication set a benchmark for airline safety procedures by providing crews with practical, immediate-use information, reinforcing MedAire's commitment to improving passenger health and safety throughout the aviation industry.
1987 - First Medical Kits for Non-Medical Responders
MedAire introduced specialised medical kits for flight crew members, equipping them with essential tools to manage onboard medical emergencies alongside guidance from ground medical experts. Sells first 100 kits to People Express.
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1989 - Partnership with Gulfstream
Gulfstream Vice President Robert Cooper decided to include MedAire's services and medical equipment with every Gulfstream aircraft purchase. This significant leap forward reflected an innovative approach to customer service, ensuring that every aircraft was equipped with essential medical tools and access to expert assistance. This offering set a new benchmark for industry standards, enhancing the safety and support available to Gulfstream's passengers and crew.1997 - Joan is the first female to receive Flight Safety Foundation’s Business Aviation Meritorious Service Award
Joan is the first Female to receive this prestigious recognition, which highlighted her groundbreaking contributions to aviation safety and pivotal role in advancing in-flight medical assistance.
1997 - Joan Sullivan Garrett testified before Congress on r the benefits of AEDs and advanced medical kits onboard aircraft
Joan testified before Congress to advocate for the implementation of AEDs and advanced medical kits onboard commercial aircraft. Her testimony underscored the critical need for enhanced medical preparedness in aviation. This advocacy contributed to the enactment of legislation in 2001, which mandated these life-saving measures, coming into effect in 2004. Joan’s efforts played a pivotal role in advancing passenger safety and setting new standards for in-flight emergency care.
1998 - MedAire partners with British Airways to manage Global Lifeline program.
This collaboration effectively led to the creation of a new "Crew Support" product tailored for airlines. By outsourcing these services to MedAire, airlines such as British Airways could offer their crew comprehensive medical and support services globally, enhancing the health, safety, and well-being of their staff. This initiative showcased MedAire's ability to provide tailored solutions that address the unique challenges faced by airline crews worldwide.
1999 - MedSpace opens as dedicated facility to manufacture and refurbish medical equipment
MedAire expanded its capabilities by opening MedSpace, a dedicated facility for manufacturing and refurbishing medical equipment. This development underscored MedAire's commitment to ensuring the highest medical preparedness and quality standards for its clients. By consolidating these essential operations, MedSpace facilitated more efficient production and maintenance of medical kits, enhancing the readiness and reliability of medical support for the aviation and maritime industries.
2000 - MedAire launches products for the Superyacht Industry
MedAire expanded its expertise into the maritime sector by launching specialised products for the superyacht industry. This strategic move provided superyacht operators with tailored medical and safety solutions, ensuring the well-being of crew and guests in remote locations. By adapting its acclaimed aviation services for maritime use, MedAire reinforced its commitment to delivering exceptional care and support across diverse environments.
2001 - MedAire Adds Aviation Security Product
In response to the changing landscape of travel safety following the events of 9/11, MedAire launched its aviation security product. This strategic development expanded MedAire's offerings to include comprehensive security solutions, enhancing the safety and security of crew and passengers. By integrating medical and security expertise, MedAire reinforced its position as a trusted partner in the aviation industry, committed to delivering holistic support and peace of mind during travel.
2001 - Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award
This accolade recognised her exceptional leadership and innovative contributions to the field of aviation safety and medical assistance. Joan's entrepreneurial spirit and vision were instrumental in positioning MedAire as a pioneer in delivering integrated medical and security solutions for the aviation and maritime industries.
2001 - MedAire opens UK Office in Farnborough
MedAire expanded its global footprint by opening a UK office at Farnborough Airport, strengthening its service delivery across Europe. That year, the company also achieved ISO 9000 certification, underscoring its commitment to high-quality management standards and excellence in medical and security services.
2003 - MedAire Acquires Global Doctor and joins the Australian Stock Exchange
MedAire acquired Global Doctor, a key strategic move that expanded its global medical assistance footprint. This acquisition facilitated MedAire's public offering, leading to its listing on the Australian Stock Exchange. These milestones marked a significant chapter in MedAire's growth, enhancing its ability to deliver comprehensive, world-class medical and security solutions to clients around the globe.
2003 - MedLink receives FIRST Tempus transmission from an aircraft
MedAire and British Midland Airways Ltd made aviation history by successfully receiving the first Tempus IC transmission from an aircraft. This groundbreaking event marked the first time a passenger's vital sign data was transmitted mid-flight, allowing for the accurate diagnosis and treatment of a heart attack victim. This pioneering use of technology set a new standard for in-flight medical care, demonstrating the potential for advanced remote diagnostics to enhance passenger safety and outcomes.
2004 - MedAire Granted a Patent for a Method and system for identifying medical facilities along a travel route
MedAire achieved a significant milestone by being granted a patent for a revolutionary method and system to identify medical facilities along travel routes. This groundbreaking innovation marked a major advancement in travel safety, allowing travellers and operators to quickly access critical medical resources when needed. The patent underscored MedAire's commitment to pioneering new solutions for enhancing passenger and crew safety, solidifying its position as a leader in the field of health and security support.
2004 - MedAire Acquires Digital Angel Corp
MedAire acquired the Medical Advisory Services business unit from Digital Angel Corporation. This strategic acquisition allowed MedAire to expand its reach in the maritime industry by enhancing its telemedicine capabilities and integrating complementary services.
2007 - MedAire Granted a Patent for Systems and methods for providing and using medical items
This patent represented a major advancement in ensuring that medical supplies are available and accessible in emergency situations, even in settings where professional help is not immediately at hand, such as onboard aircraft, vessels, or remote locations. The system features specially designed containers with indicators for quick identification and use, automatic replenishment schedules to maintain inventory, and detailed tracking for efficiency. This invention vastly improved how medical kits are managed, ensuring timely access to crucial medical resources and enhancing safety and emergency response readiness across various industries.
2008 - International SOS acquires MedAire
This acquisition combined MedAire's expertise in aviation and maritime medical assistance with International SOS’s expansive global infrastructure. The collaboration greatly enhanced MedAire's capacity to deliver comprehensive health and safety services worldwide, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and excellence in serving the travel and transportation industries.
2008 - STCW 95 MCA Training Launches
MedAire introduced its STCW 95 MCA training program, designed to equip maritime professionals with the competencies required to meet the stringent standards set by the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers.
2011 - MedAire acquires Yacht Lifeline
In 2011, MedAire expanded its maritime offerings by acquiring Yacht Lifeline. This strategic acquisition allowed MedAire to extend its comprehensive medical and security assistance services to the yachting community. By integrating Yacht Lifeline’s expertise, MedAire strengthened its position as a trusted provider of specialised support in the maritime industry, ensuring enhanced safety and care for yacht crews and passengers around the world.
2011 - Joan Sullivan Garrett Appointed to NBAA Board of Directors
Joan Sullivan Garrett, founder of MedAire, was appointed to the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Board of Directors. Her inclusion on the board highlighted her influential role and expertise in aviation safety and medical assistance. Joan's appointment underscored her commitment to advancing the industry and her contributions to enhancing health and safety standards within business aviation.
2013 - FIRST App-based intelligence solution for the Aviation Industry Trip Ready App for
MedAire launched the Trip Ready App, the aviation industry's first app-based intelligence solution. This innovative app provided real-time, critical information and resources to aviation professionals, enhancing their preparation and response capabilities. By integrating up-to-date intelligence and operational tools, the Trip Ready App set a new standard for efficiency and safety in flight operations, reflecting MedAire's ongoing commitment to pioneering advancements in aviation support.
2013 - MedAire Acquires São Paulo-based AeroSafety to strengthen its position Latin America
MedAire acquires São Paulo-based AeroSafety to strengthen its position in Latin America. This collaboration aimed to offer a comprehensive medical and travel risk management solution for commercial airlines and private aviation. By combining MedAire's global expertise with AeroSafety's local presence, the partnership enhanced the delivery of medical kits, emergency equipment, and risk management services, aligning with their commitment to aviation safety and support in the region.
2013 - MedAire Acquires Ocean Medical International
MedAire acquired Ocean Medical International, a leading supplier of superyacht medical kits with a production facility in Wales. This acquisition expanded MedAire’s capability to provide specialised medical equipment and support to the superyacht industry.
2014 - Sea to Shore App Launched in the Luxury Yacht Industry
MedAire launched the Sea to Shore App, specifically designed for the luxury yacht industry. This innovative app provided yacht crews and operators with easy access to vital medical and travel safety information, enhancing preparedness and response capabilities while at sea.
2014 - MedAire Partnership with Oyster Yachts
MedAire partnered with UK luxury yacht builder Oyster Yachts to enhance the safety and support offered to yacht owners. As part of this partnership, new Oyster yachts would include a two-year membership to "Oyster Elite," MedAire's comprehensive health and travel safety program. This program provided owners, guests, and crew with 24/7 access to medical and travel safety assistance and a global network of healthcare providers.
2015 - Dubai Office Opens
MedAire expanded its international presence by opening an office in the Dubai Airport Freezone. This enabled MedAire to better serve clients in the Middle East and enhance its delivery of comprehensive medical and security solutions.
2016 - MedAire Acquires Medifan GmbH
MedAire expanded its operations in Central Europe by acquiring Medifan GmbH, a leading aviation medical training company in Germany. This partnership allowed MedAire to integrate Medifan's top-tier training programs into its offerings.
2017 - Joan Sullivan Garrett Honoured with National Business Aviation Association Meritorious Award
Garrett received the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Meritorious Service Award, one of the highest honours in the aviation industry. This accolade recognises her exceptional contributions to aviation safety and her pioneering efforts in developing in-flight medical and security assistance services. Joan’s dedication to enhancing the safety and well-being of passengers and crew has had a profound impact on business aviation, reinforcing her legacy as an industry innovator.
2017 - MedAire forms Partnership with Princess Yachts - Princess Lifeline
MedAire established a partnership with Princess Yachts to enhance the safety and medical preparedness of luxury yacht experiences. This collaboration provides Princess Yacht owners and crew with access to MedAire's world-class medical and travel safety services, ensuring comprehensive support at sea. T
2019 - Joan Sullivan Garrett Induction into the International Air & Space Museum
Garrett was inducted into the International Air & Space Museum, celebrating her influential contributions to aviation and aerospace. This induction recognised her pioneering work in enhancing passenger and crew safety through innovative medical and security solutions. Her visionary leadership has not only advanced the aviation industry but also paved the way for future innovations, solidifying her status as a key figure in the field.
2019 - MedAire Launches In-Flight App with Iceland Air, Empowering Cabin Crew with MedLink Access
In partnership with Iceland Air, launched a groundbreaking In-Flight App featuring AI-guided scenarios. This industry-first tool empowers cabin crew to quickly and accurately assess unwell passengers and transmit critical information to MedLink doctors on the ground. The app significantly enhances in-flight medical response, ensuring effective management of medical situations and prioritising passenger safety.
2020 - Joan Sullivan Garrett Enshrined in the National Aviation Hall of Fame
Garrett was enshrined in the National Aviation Hall of Fame, joining the esteemed company of pioneers like Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh, Neil Armstrong, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk. This prestigious honour recognises her groundbreaking contributions to aviation safety through innovative medical and security solutions. Her leadership and visionary work have significantly advanced passenger and crew safety, cementing her legacy as a transformative figure in the aviation industry.
2021 - Introduced the Digital Assessment Kit making in-flight diagnostics more accessible for more operators
MedAire introduced the Digital Assessment Kit, a transformative tool designed to enhance in-flight diagnostics for operators. Using an iPad interface, this innovative kit offers an accessible and user-friendly alternative to previous complex devices, empowering non-medical first responders with crucial data to make life-saving decisions. The Digital Assessment Kit significantly increases the accessibility of advanced medical diagnostics, improving safety and efficiency in the aviation industry.
2022 - Launch of First-of-its-Kind Aviation Threat and Incident Management Portal
MedAire launched a pioneering portal designed for aviation threat and incident management, marking a significant innovation in the industry. This first-of-its-kind platform delivers real-time intelligence and tools for aviation professionals to manage and respond to security threats and incidents efficiently. By integrating comprehensive data and actionable insights, the portal enhances decision-making and strengthens safety protocols, further solidifying MedAire's role as a leader in aviation safety and security solutions.2023 - CEO Bill Dolny named NBAA Board of Director's Vice-Chair
MedAire's CEO, Bill Dolny, was appointed Vice-Chair of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Board of Directors, continuing a prestigious tradition established by previous MedAire leaders, including founder Joan Sullivan Garrett. This appointment underscores Bill's dedication to advancing business aviation and MedAire's enduring influence in the industry. Under his leadership, MedAire remains a trailblazer in safety innovations and support, reinforcing its role as a leader in aviation excellence.
2024 - MedAire Joins Space-Edge to Pioneer Medical Innovations for Space Travel
Partnering with leading institutions like Arizona State University and Blue Origin to advance biomedical innovations for space. MedAire seeks to develop medical solutions tailored for space travelers, addressing unique challenges similar to those found in aviation. By understanding the effects of micro- and zero-gravity environments, MedAire aims to ensure the safety and wellness of space travelers, who may lack immediate access to traditional medical services during long missions, thus continuing its legacy of pioneering health and safety solutions in extreme environments.
2024 - MedAire Awarded the Prestigious Henderson Trophy: A Rare Honour for Organisational Excellence in Aviation
MedAire was awarded the prestigious Henderson Trophy, recognising its outstanding contributions to aviation. This accolade celebrates MedAire's innovative solutions and unwavering commitment to enhancing safety and security for passengers and crew globally. Through pioneering medical and security assistance, MedAire continues to set industry standards, reinforcing its legacy as a leader in aviation safety and support.