Air Evac Lifeteam donates windsocks to Huntsville Fire & Rescue to support safer helicopter landings

Published on May 8, 2025

Air Evac Lifeteam has donated two airport-style windsocks to Huntsville Fire & Rescue (HFR) to enhance the safety of medical helicopter landings.

The windsocks were installed at two public safety sites: Fire Station 6 on Drake Avenue and the Public Safety Training Field on Triana Boulevard. While the training field location is used to train firefighters for rescue operations with helicopters and their crews, the Drake Avenue location is frequently used as a landing zone for medical helicopters transporting critical patients to hospitals.

“These windsocks assist incoming air crews by providing a clear read on wind direction and velocity, helping ensure safe landings,” said Deputy Chief Wes Ogle.

The sites are used to transport patients to and from medical centers such as UAB, Vanderbilt, Crestwood Hospital and Huntsville Hospital. According to Ogle, HFR has seen an uptick in activity, sometimes coordinating as many as three helicopter landings in just six hours.

Each landing is carefully managed by a team of HFR personnel who assist with patient transfers to ambulances and ensure all safety protocols are followed.

“It’s another way we’re looking out for the safety of fellow emergency workers and the public,” Ogle added.

While most helicopters land at certified helipads, this initiative provides a reliable and safer alternative during urgent transport situations.

“Big thanks to Air Evac Lifeteam for donating the windsocks,” said Ogle. “They improve safety for our crews, pilots and patients.”