LifeFlight of Maine receives international award for ‘exceptional contributions to enhancing safety’

BANGOR, Maine (WABI) – Maine’s only air ambulance service is being honored by the world’s leading membership association for helicopter aviation.

LifeFlight of Maine is this year’s recipient of Vertical Aviation International’s “Salute to Excellence Safety Award.”

“We proudly recognize the exceptional talents and steadfast commitment of this year’s Salute to Excellence awardees,” says James Viola, VAI president and CEO. “Their dedication to advancing safety, innovation, and professionalism within vertical aviation not only reflects the highest standards of our industry but also continuously pushes the boundaries of what is possible, ensuring a safer and more successful future for all of us in this community.”

Since 1998, LifeFlight of Maine has transported more than 40,000 patients.

The nonprofit’s airplane and five helicopters are based in Bangor, Lewiston, and Sanford.

“We are honored to be recognized with such a meaningful award,” said Joe Kellner, CEO of LifeFlight of Maine. “In 1998, the top priority for LifeFlight of Maine founders Tom Judge and Dr. Norm Dinerman was to create a system and culture dedicated to safety. They fostered a culture of transparency, openness, and honesty, that is still seen every day at LifeFlight. I am grateful for the dedication of our crews, administration, and leadership teams for their attention to detail and patient safety at the forefront of every patient transport. We are also thankful for the families who entrust us with the safe care of their loved ones — it’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly.”

LifeFlight of Maine will receive the award at a vertical aviation conference and tradeshow in Dallas, Texas in March.

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