Sentara Norfolk General Hospital Heliport

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital Heliport (VA88) is primarily a private medical heliport and not a commercial airport for general public travel. Therefore, conventional traveler reviews and experiences are not available for this facility. Its main function is to support critical medical transport, predominantly through the Nightingale Regional Air Ambulance service, which has been operational since 1982 and performs hundreds of missions annually. While some private aviation companies, such as BLADE, may offer charter services from VA88, there are no specific traveler reviews regarding the heliport's facilities or experience for such private flights.

What is Known About VA88 (Operational Aspects):

• Medical Transport Hub: The heliport is crucial for rapid transport of critically ill or injured patients within a 125-mile radius, serving Hampton Roads, the Eastern Shore, and northeastern North Carolina. It facilitates both scene flights (from accident sites) and interhospital transfers.
• Modern Rooftop Facilities: In May 2019, the heliport transitioned from ground-level pads to a rooftop array 296 feet above grade, which includes a dedicated pad for Nightingale and an adjacent pad for other air ambulances, including U.S. Coast Guard and Navy helicopters. This new configuration was implemented for improved safety and to mitigate "swirling effects" caused by surrounding buildings at the former ground pads.
• Continuous Patient Off-Load Assistance: The heliport offers continuous patient off-load assistance upon request via phone or radio.
• Dual Use for Pediatric Transport: The helipad is also utilized for patient deliveries to Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters.
• Advanced Aircraft Capabilities: The Nightingale service operates an IFR-capable Airbus EC145 helicopter, equipped with autopilot, night vision, weather radar, obstacle avoidance technology, and wire cutters, enhancing its ability to fly in varied weather conditions and support more medical missions.