Classic Lifeguard began service with one helicopter and a medical crew of two basic EMT's on Memorial Day 1988. Classic began as a seasonal service to assist the National Park Service in transporting trauma patients off of Lake Powell to a trauma center. Classic started lifeguard air ambulance operations because the park service would often call Classic tour helicopters from Bryce Canyon to airlift injured people off the lake. Mark Henderson, owner of Classic; and Dan Rudert, pilot, decided to start Classic Lifeguard in response to the repeated requests for air evacuation services from the park service.
From the beginning Classic has strived to maintain a professional relationship with the folks who call us for assistance. We work closely with the National Park Service, Navajo Nation EMS, AZ and UT Highway Patrol, Page Fire Department, and the various other agencies in Utah and Arizona. Our reputation of excellence has allowed us to grow in this unique and diversified field.
Much has changed since our first steps in providing air ambulance service. When the program was started, the helicopter was stationed at the airport and the crews stayed in a rented house nearby. Now we enjoy a large hanger with living quarters built in. No more scraping snow off the helicopter in the middle of winter!
We have learned much and will continue to learn as this industry is constantly evolving. We have logged over 5000 missions since we began service in 1988. Safety is our number one priority and that will continue to be our focus as we operate in a very dangerous and unique environment.
Milestones for Classic Lifeguard:
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1988- Classic began flight operations
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1989- Flight crew changed to Paramedic/Paramedic
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1991- Flight crew changed to RN/Paramedic
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1992-Classic Lifeguard begins year round service
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1998- Classic hangar/FBO at Page Airport completed
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1999- Classic is awarded CAMTS accreditation
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1999- 2nd helicopter goes online from May-October in Page, Arizona
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2001- Upgrade full-time aircraft to Bell 407 helicopter
