Published: September 25, 2026

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

When a child needs critical care, every second matters. Building on decades of service to children and families across Kentucky and Southern Indiana, the Norton Children’s “Just for Kids” Transport Team has a new helicopter that will help ensure critically ill and injured children can quickly reach specialized pediatric care when they need it most.

The new EC145 helicopter, which replaces the team’s previous aircraft, will continue to fly as “JFK1.” It features fully upgraded avionics, new radios and GPS system, and a performance load system that is the first of its kind in the region. The new load system is universal, allowing JFK1 to land at any airport, with an ability to load patients to and from any ambulance.

“Behind every transport is a highly trained team committed to caring for children during some of the most challenging moments of their lives,” said Amy Ball, manager, transport services, Norton Children’s. “This new aircraft helps us continue that mission, giving our crews the tools and flexibility to safely reach children across the region and help them access the care they need.”

The “Just for Kids” Transport Team includes 36 members. In addition to the helicopter, its fleet includes five ambulances customized for pediatric patient care and equipped to treat the most complex medical cases. During transport, children are cared for by a dedicated three-member clinical team that can provide critical care interventions while coordinating directly with physicians and specialists, extending pediatric expertise throughout every step of the transport.

In 2025, the team completed 579 helicopter transports. Through Aug. 31, 2026, the team has already completed 418 helicopter transports. With an ability to travel up to 225 nautical miles, the helicopter allows the team to reach communities throughout Kentucky, Southern Indiana and beyond when needed.

“Families don’t choose when or where a medical emergency happens,” said Susan Strack, system vice president, pediatric services, Norton Children’s. “This helicopter helps ensure children throughout our region can quickly reach the specialized pediatric care available through Norton Children’s. It’s an investment in access, expertise and our commitment to caring for children wherever they call home.”

The “Just for Kids” Transport Team has partnered with Air Methods for more than 20 years. As part of the partnership, Air Methods provides the aircraft, pilots, mechanics and maintenance support, while the transport team provides specialized pediatric critical care during the trip to Norton Children’s.

During its seven years of service, the previous JFK1 completed more than 3,800 flight hours and 10,000 landings. The new aircraft will continue that legacy, helping ensure the “Just for Kids” Transport Team remains ready when children need them most.