News Release

FAI honoured with two awards at Middle East Aviation Awards

FAI Aviation Group, Germany's leading global provider of mission-critical aviation services, was honoured at the 2023 Middle East Aviation Awards on 14th November, during the Dubai Airshow. The group scooped two accolades, Air Ambulance Company of the Year Award and the prestigious Aviation Business Innovative Leader Award, which was presented to the group's Dubai-based managing director, Barbara Baumgartner.

Barbara Baumgartner accepted both awards on behalf of FAI at a gala evening, attended by senior aviation industry leaders. Barbara, who is marking 21 years with FAI in Dubai, commented: “I am delighted to accept these awards at such a special evening and pleased that FAI has been recognised for its exceptional achievements in air ambulance. It is a testament to FAI's dedication to excellence, safety and innovation in air ambulance services. The company remains committed to providing world-class medical transport solutions globally, ensuring the highest level of care for patients in their time of need.”

“I am equally honoured to receive the Aviation Business Innovative Leader Award. It reflects the collective efforts of the entire FAI team in embracing innovation and driving excellence in our operations. I am proud to lead such a dynamic and forward-thinking organisation in the Middle East," she added.

Siegfried Axtmann, chairman and founder FAI Aviation Group, said: “These accolades underscore FAI's commitment to and success in the region, for which I am delighted. Baumgartner has made an outstanding contribution to the aviation industry, most particularly it is her innovative and visionary leadership that has propelled FAI's success in the Middle East. She has achieved substantial strategic growth in the region and expanded FAI's presence and market share, so helping to position the company as a key player in the region's aviation sector. Congratulations to her.”

As a member of FAI's executive strategic committee, Baumgartner has been a driving force behind the introduction of innovative business practices within FAI. Her commitment to exploring new ideas and technologies has resulted in streamlined operations and enhanced customer experiences, and strengthened FAI's reputation for cutting-edge solutions in aviation. This award acknowledges her role in fostering a culture of innovation within FAI and setting new standards for excellence in the industry.

FAI rent-a-jet is one of the world's largest air ambulance jet operators. Its air ambulance operation boasts a diverse and state-of-the-art 10-strong fleet of Bombardier aircraft comprising Learjet 60, Challenger 604s and Global Express aircraft, equipped with advanced medical technology to handle a wide range of air ambulance missions. This diversity allows FAI to tailor its services to the unique needs of each patient, ensuring the highest level of care during transport, which may include some of the most critical and challenging cases in the industry. FAI Air ambulance is supported by more than 250 full-time staff plus 50 part-time physicians, nurses and paramedics. The company also specialises in air support in hostile areas for the world's largest NGO.