The Tasmanian branch of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) is undertaking a significant redevelopment project at its Launceston base, with a budget of AUD21 million (USD14.8 million), as announced on April 8, 2026. The upgrade involves modernizing Hangar 90, replacing the existing facility opened in 1998, to enhance operational capacity and expand aeromedical retrieval capabilities.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian government, which allocated AUD15 million (USD10.5 million), and the Tasmanian government contributing AUD6 million (USD4.2 million). This development aims to support broader healthcare outreach, including dental, physical, and mental health services across rural communities in Tasmania.
RFDS Tasmania has also extended its partnership with Ambulance Tasmania through a ten-year contract signed in December 2025 to continue fixed-wing aeromedical services using a new Beech (twin turboprop) B350 aircraft. The upgraded Launceston base will provide increased capacity for fixed-wing aircraft and better accommodate rotary-wing aircraft during complex deployments.
The organization operates a diverse fleet, including Pilatus PC-12s, Pilatus PC-24s, Beechcraft King Air, and Super King Air twin-turboprops. These aircraft are essential for the organization’s mission of providing urgent medical services across remote Australian regions.
