Leonardo has recently conducted a series of tests for the integration of an Aircraft Transit ISOlator (A.T.ISOL) biocontainment system on-board a C-27J Spartan multi-mission tactical transport aircraft. The system is designed to ensure the safe air transport of patients with highly infectious diseases.

The tests were carried out at Leonardo’s Caselle Sud plant – with the support of system supplier OMP – using an aircraft which is soon to be delivered to a customer air force.

A.T.ISOL is the most effective medium/long-range transport and first-aid solution for patients infected with potentially life-threatening infectious diseases (such as Ebola, MERS, SARS and Covid-19) and ensures total protection for the medical personnel and the crew against exposure to pathogens.

The isolating structure is kept under negative pressure using High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, and can be powered electrically, either by the aircraft or by its own rechargeable batteries.

Up to two A.T.ISOL units can be installed on board the C-27J, making it possible to carry out special medical transportation missions, while further expanding the versatility of the aircraft. Using this system, the C-27J can be transformed into an intensive care unit when required.

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, C-27J Spartans have been carrying out critical support missions in Europe, Latin America and the US. The ability to transport highly infectious patients in special isolation stretchers is becoming increasingly valuable and indispensable during the global emergency, as demonstrated in Europe by the C-27Js of the Romanian Air Force and, more recently, in Latin America by the Spartans in service with the Peruvian Air Force.