Flying doctors: British paramedics test jet suit for speedy rescues
- Invention would allow first responders to reach people in rough terrain much more quickly, potentially saving lives
- Suit has record speed of 51km/h (32mph) and maximum altitude of 3,658 metres (12,000 feet)
Paramedics in England’s remote, rugged Lake District region have been testing a jet suit that gets them to people in danger or distress in a fraction of the time it would take to travel by car or on foot.
In scenes reminiscent of a James Bond movie, test pilot and suit inventor Richard Browning hovers and moves a few metres above the rough terrain with the help of small jets mounted on his arms and back.
“Who knows what the future holds but this is a start we are very proud of,” Browning said.
Developed by UK-based Gravity Industries, the technology drastically reduces response times in rough terrain, potentially saving lives.
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“The potential is just huge,” said helicopter paramedic Andy Mawson. “The first flight in Cumbria from a jet suit that is going to save lives and ease suffering – an incredible moment.
“It’s absolutely astounding how quickly we’re going to be at somebody’s side that needs us.”