The Importance of our aircraft
AIM has been blessed with multiple airplanes over the years. The heart of our aviation is primarily as a support role to medicine. As with any hospital, sometimes AIM's medical facilities and staff are not equipped to handle certain complicated cases. However, AIM has the added difficulty of working in a remote location, far from any medical facilities with the necessary equipment and staff. In emergency situations, AIM can fly patients to Guatemala City where they can receive the necessary care.
AIM also uses the airplanes for the transportation of people and supplies. Driving to Guatemala City can take anywhere from 5 to 7 hours, and, during the heaviest parts of the rainy season, the roads can become impassable. The same trip only takes about 25 minutes in a plane. Having the airplanes enables AIM to continue to function year-round while remaining better able to serve the people of the region.
1988 Pilatus PC-6 Porter
1958 Cessna 182
With the demands of our location and the role of airplanes in the ministry, certain airplanes are more suited for AIM than others. Recently AIM purchased a Pilatus PC-6 Porter. This plane will more readily fit our needs and the needs of the people that we serve. It includes room for 2 stretchers, the ability to land with poor runway conditions, and a greater weight and room capacity. It will allow us to do emergency flights while maintaining the safety of the pilot and passengers. This plane has been a project that we are moving forward with as the Lord is directing.