Mercy Air 51 Open for Business at Cheyenne Airport Center

On September 17, Las Vegas celebrated the official opening of its first 24/7 air medical base for fixed-wing aircraft. The facility, located at Cheyenne Airport Center on the north side of the city, is staffed by Mercy Air and its Pilatus PC-12 aircraft.

The base is a significant addition to Nevada’s emergency response network, joining existing Mercy Air helicopter stations in Henderson, Pahrump, and Mesquite. Unlike helicopters, the Pilatus PC-12 can operate on longer routes and in poor weather conditions, minimizing situations where mountain weather makes flights between Las Vegas and Pahrump too risky.

“Today we are not just welcoming a new aircraft, we are welcoming a lifeline – a symbol of speed, connection, and hope for our community of Pahrump,” said Ryan Muccio, marketing and outreach coordinator for Desert View Hospital in Pahrump. “This isn’t just about a machine, it’s about making sure that no matter where someone lives, lifesaving care is always within reach.”

The PC-12 is equipped with a wide array of advanced medical tools, including a Zoll AutoPulse NXT device for automated chest compressions, whole blood for immediate transfusions, and medications to handle cardiac, trauma, pediatric, and burn emergencies. Flight nurse and paramedic crews are on call at all times and can provide care from the scene through transport. Their capabilities were proven almost immediately: Mercy Air 51’s first patient was transported just 15 minutes after going into service.

“This aircraft is extremely important for the state of Nevada,” added Nevada Lt. Governor Stavros Anthony. “A lot of places don’t even have a clinic, so if people get hurt or have a medical need, they may have to drive three hours to get help. Their life is on the line, and that’s why this Mercy Air aircraft is so critical.”

FMI: www.airmethods.com