Advanced MAMA Technology

Night Vision Goggles

Mission Hospital's air medical transport program (MAMA) has been a pioneer in the use of Night Vision Goggles (NVG's) in the air medical industry. The terrain in Western North Carolina can provide many navigational challenges, even without the added hazard of night time flying in low-light conditions.

For years the team found themselves flying into unsecured landing zones at night with very restricted visualization of potential hazards.  The implementation of the use of the NVG system was ground breaking technology at the time, and had not been used in civilian service. After the long process of careful training, equipment purchase, and upgrading aircraft lighting, MAMA 1 became the first FAA Approved, Part 135 NVG Certified Service in the Nation. The first NVG aided flight was completed on February 5, 1999. The MAMA program continues as a pioneer and leader in use of NVG technology amongst air medical programs nationally by having FAA NVG certified pilots and air crew.

Landing site viewed with NVG technology

Night Vision Goggles were developed for the military to aid soldiers and aircraft in navigation at night. The goggles act to condense the limited light available at night and intensifying it into more useable light. Without the use of NVG the pilot and crew have approximately 20/200 vision in the night time, low light conditions. The use of NVG increases the crew's vision to a range between 20/25 and 20/30. The NVG does not magnify distance. The increase in the available light allows the pilot and crew to identify hazards such as power lines, antennas, signs, fences, and terrain that would have remained otherwise unnoticed. With the inherent dangers related to our local terrain, the goggles are one measure the crew takes to ensure not only their personal safety, but the safety of our patients.  

The MAMA pilot, nurse, and paramedic or respiratory therapist each utilize NVG on all night operations. Having all members certified and utilizing the goggles means there are three sets of eyes available to scan for hazards and monitor for potential threats to flight safety. The cost of implementing, upgrading, and recurrent training in NVG is expensive, however the result of investment ensures patient and crew safety. 

If you would like more information on the MAMA team and aircraft or would like to schedule training sessions for Fire/Rescue/Medical Organizations, civic appearances or career days contact the MAMA crew.