Parameters:
(1) maximum take-off weight for the aircraft in lbs
(2) fixed weight for the empty aircraft in lbs
(3) combined weight for the aircraft crew in lbs
(4) weight for the fuel required to make the trip, plus a safety margin
(5) weight of the patient(s) in lbs
(6) weight for medical gear (equipment and supplies) in lbs
where:
• The weight of fuel is about 6 pounds per gallon, or 0.7205 kg per liter.
payload for patient(s) and medical gear in lbs =
= (weight for patients) + (weight for the medical equipment)
maximum payload for patient(s) and medical gear in lbs =
= (maximum take-off weight) - (fixed weight for the aircraft) - (crew weight) - (fuel weight)
If the weight of the patient and medical equipment exceeds the maximum payload, then the difference in weight must be jettisoned somehow:
(1) if 2 or more patients are being transported, then reduce the number be taken on the trip.
(2) take less gear
(3) remove seats or other parts of the aircraft
(4) leave a crew member behind
(5) make a shorter trip requiring less fuel
It is important that any decision made to reduce weight does not jeopardize the safety of the mission.
