Imelda Hospital Helipad

The helipad was closed because it was replaced by a new, modern, and more efficient facility. As part of a major expansion and modernization of the Imelda Hospital, a new rooftop helipad (ICAO: EBIM) was constructed on top of the new wing housing the emergency and intensive care units. The old ground-level helipad (BE-0007) was decommissioned upon the commissioning of its replacement, which offers more direct and faster patient access to critical care departments.

The site of the former ground-level helipad has been fully decommissioned. The physical helipad and its markings have been removed. The area has been re-landscaped and integrated into the surrounding hospital grounds and parking facilities as part of the broader hospital renovation project. All helicopter operations for the Imelda Hospital are now handled by the new rooftop helipad (EBIM).

The Imelda Hospital Helipad (BE-0007) was a crucial piece of infrastructure for the hospital and the surrounding region. Its primary operation was handling Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) flights, known in Belgium as MUG-heli services. It facilitated the rapid air transport of critically ill or injured patients to the hospital's emergency department. The helipad was essential for time-sensitive medical cases, including trauma incidents and inter-hospital transfers of critical patients, significantly reducing transport time compared to ground ambulances.

There are zero prospects for reopening the BE-0007 helipad. Its closure was a planned and permanent part of a strategic upgrade to the hospital's infrastructure. It has been functionally and officially superseded by the superior rooftop helipad (EBIM), which is currently active.