The Zambia Flying Doctor Service (ZFDS) has successfully completed two critical aeromedical missions over the past two days, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to providing timely, safe, and compassionate healthcare services across Zambia through its strategic partnership with the Workers’ Compensation(WC) .

On 15th July 2026, ZFDS undertook a high-priority medical evacuation of a 73-year-old male patient from Mufulira to Lusaka for urgent specialised treatment. The patient, a WC beneficiary, was diagnosed with Stage II pneumoconiosis and had previously undergone an above-the-knee amputation of the right leg. Owing to the severity of his respiratory condition, he was oxygen dependent and could remain without oxygen support for no more than 20 minutes.

To ensure the safest possible transfer, ZFDS deployed both its helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft. The patient was first airlifted from Mufulira to the ZFDS Headquarters in Ndola aboard helicopter 9J-KDK, piloted by Chief Pilot Zacharia Mbewe and Timothy Gibbs. Upon arrival in Ndola, he was seamlessly transferred to fixed-wing aircraft 9J-FDS, flown by Pilot Elvis Kite and Co-pilot Siphosami Zulu. Throughout the journey, Paramedics Suzen Banda and Prince Mwewa provided continuous medical monitoring and oxygen therapy.

The aircraft landed safely in Lusaka, where an ambulance was on standby to transfer the patient to the International Hospital of Zambia for specialised treatment.

Today 16th July 2026, ZFDS successfully conducted the repatriation of a 51-year-old female patient from the International Hospital of Zambia in Lusaka to Kala Marine Barracks in Kawambwa District following specialised treatment for multiple bone fractures.

The patient remained stable throughout the flight under the close supervision of the ZFDS medical team. The mission was expertly undertaken by Captain Patrick Kawanu and Pilot Elvis Kite, with Paramedic Prince Mwewa providing continuous in-flight medical care. Upon arrival in Kawambwa District, the patient was safely handed over to the receiving WC team and her family members.

These successful missions demonstrate the strength of the ongoing partnership between ZFDS and the Workers’ Compensation in ensuring beneficiaries have access to specialised healthcare and safe aeromedical transportation, both to treatment facilities and back to their communities.

ZFDS remains steadfast in its mission of delivering reliable aeromedical services and strengthening partnerships that bring quality healthcare closer to the people across Zambia.