University of Michigan - Survival Flight

08/27/2026

08/21/2026

We often get asked if we think the aircraft is cool to watch or if we still take videos of it. The answer is definitely yes 😎. We got a great video of the bird landing in all her glory.

08/14/2026

It was the middle of the night in February 2002. Snow was packed high, and temperatures were freezing.

Sue Campbell stood outside a hospital in Kalamazoo watching as a Survival Flight crew prepared to fly her critically ill husband, Brian Campbell, to the University of Michigan Health.

For the next 24 years, every year on the anniversary of his flight, the Campbells reach out to the Survival Flight crew to thank them.

Read about Brian's story at https://michmed.org/KdDqX.

08/07/2026

While emergency water landings are incredibly rare, being prepared is never optional.

That’s why our crews regularly complete water egress training—learning how to safely escape a submerged aircraft in a controlled environment before they’re ever faced with the real thing. Thank you Survival Systems for some great training!

08/04/2026

Most of the time, we fly below the clouds so we can safely navigate to our destination. Every once in a while, though, the conditions are just right and we get the chance to climb above them.

It’s a perspective we don’t get very often, and it’s a reminder that even after countless flights, there are still moments that make you stop and appreciate what we get to do.

07/22/2026

We had the opportunity to join a nursing leadership panel with Michigan State University nursing students to talk about what leadership really looks like in healthcare. We discussed the importance of communication, advocating for your patients, supporting your teammates, staying curious, and never being afraid to ask questions. To all of the future nurses we met today—thank you for your thoughtful questions and enthusiasm. The future of nursing is in great hands, and we can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make.

07/03/2026

Mark your calendars for the Michigan Medicine Survival Flight Conference—an outstanding educational event designed for both EMS and nursing professionals.

This conference combines expert-led lectures with hands-on learning opportunities, giving you practical skills you can take back to the bedside, ambulance, or aircraft. Whether you’re looking to expand your critical care knowledge, sharpen your assessment skills, or network with other healthcare professionals, there’s something for everyone.

✔️ EMS Continuing Education (CEs)
✔️ Nursing Continuing Education (CEs)

We’d love to see you there! More details, including registration information and the full agenda, will be coming soon. Save the date now—you won’t want to miss it! 🚁💙

07/02/2026

Today we had the opportunity to welcome and host 1st–3rd year nursing students as part of an international exchange between Eastern Michigan University and nursing students from Taiwan.

This collaboration brings students together for a 3-week experience focused on learning, observation, and exposure to different healthcare systems and clinical environments. Glad to have you guys out!

07/01/2026

This past Monday, our team had the opportunity to provide a Landing Zone Safety Class at Kellogg Community College.

Thank you to everyone who attended and participated. Landing zone education plays a critical role in ensuring safe helicopter operations and successful patient care missions. We appreciate the opportunity to work with current and future EMS providers and share best practices for creating a safe landing environment.

06/28/2026

A pretty incredible view from our base this week!

One of the perks of working in Livingston County is getting a bird’s-eye view of the annual hot air balloon festival.