In aircraft and airport disasters help must reach the site of the accident in a very short time. In addition to the ground rescue service, rescue helicopters can also offer help. The rescue helicopter as a mobile intensive care unit contains a medical crew with a flying physician and a paramedic. The following are required basic equipment for rescue helicopters: resuscitation apparatus with and without oxygen; endotracheal intubation set; suction unit; apparatus for measuring blood pressure; infusion sets and solutions with intravenous cannulas; syringes and needles; bandages; special burn dressings; fixation and splinting material; vacuum mattress; surgical pocket kit; stomach tube; ECG monitor; defibrillator with pacemaker; drugs; and otoscope. This medical equipment has to be portable so that it can be used outside the rescue helicopter.

The medical crew must be trained in emergency medical treatment and in aeromedical problems. Patients who are fit to fly can be transported by rescue helicopters after triage and support of their vital functions. This method is of most value if rapid transport to a distant specialized medical department, for example, to a burn or neurosurgery center, is required.

The German Air Rescue operates seven rescue helicopters at five rescue helicopter centers for primary rescue with the helicopter types BO 105 CBS, BO 105, Bell 206 Long Ranger and 3et Ranger. Another important function of the service are long distance flights with patients to medical centers after aircraft and airport disasters. Specially equipped ambulance aircraft are used in these cases.