Shreveport, Louisiana, October 1, 2025
News Summary
Metro Aviation, based in Shreveport, Louisiana, has demonstrated its latest innovations and future plans in air ambulance technology during a recent visit from Louisiana Economic Development Secretary. CEO Mike Stanberry highlighted advancements such as retrofitted aircraft and plans to acquire eVTOL aircraft that promise lower operational costs. The collaboration aims to bolster state support for infrastructure and operator training critical for the future of electric aircraft and growth in the aviation sector.
Shreveport, Louisiana – Metro Aviation showcased its latest innovations and future plans during a recent visit from Louisiana Economic Development (LED) Secretary Susan Bourgeois and her team. The event took place at the company’s facility, where Mike Stanberry, the President and CEO of Metro Aviation, led a tour highlighting the company’s advancements in air ambulance technology and aircraft retrofitting.
During the tour, attendees were able to see demonstrations of retrofitted helicopters and visit the company’s flight school, which is equipped with two FlightSafety simulators. With a specialization in operating over 160 air ambulances, retrofitting aircraft for various sectors, and providing helicopter flight training, Metro Aviation plays a crucial role in healthcare and aviation in the region.
The company currently employs under 300 local staff as part of a total workforce of 1,188. Stanberry emphasized the need for state support in further developing infrastructure that is essential for battery-powered aircraft. He expressed optimism regarding the company’s growth potential, noting that state assistance could significantly enhance their operations.
Metro Aviation is pushing the envelope in air ambulance technology, working on initiatives that include a rapid response time app and pilot tools designed for low-visibility conditions. A key asset in their operations is the operation control center, which has the capability to update data 100 times per second related to aircraft, pilots, and missions.
One of the critical future projects for Metro Aviation involves the planned purchase of up to 20 Beta Alia A250 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. These aircraft are notable for their significantly lower operational costs compared to traditional methods, with estimates indicating that operating an Alia aircraft for short flights could cost around $13 for a flight from Shreveport to Monroe, in stark contrast to traditional air ambulance costs ranging from $2,000 to $3,000.
However, challenges loom with the Alia’s battery capacity, which currently limits its range to 30 to 40 miles before requiring a recharge. Stanberry highlighted that other states are ahead of Louisiana in adopting electric aircraft infrastructure, emphasizing the need for charging stations that cost approximately $1.5 million each. Additionally, the training of operators and pilots for the new aircraft remains a significant concern for the company.
During the visit, LED Secretary Bourgeois underscored the importance of sharing success stories from businesses like Metro Aviation to help improve Louisiana’s image as a leader in technology and industry. The Louisiana Economic Development initiative aims to visit 800 businesses over the next 18 months, with already 25% of the goal achieved after just three months.
The discussions between Bourgeois and Stanberry focused on the potential for growth Metro Aviation could achieve with the necessary support from the state. They both acknowledged the significant opportunities for job creation and economic development through the integration of new technologies and increased state backing for local businesses.
In summary, Metro Aviation is at the forefront of innovation in the air ambulance sector with ambitious plans, including the integration of eVTOL aircraft into its fleet. The collaboration with state officials highlights the mutual interest in establishing Louisiana as a hub for technological advancement and economic growth.
Key Highlights:
- Tour led by Mike Stanberry for LED Secretary Susan Bourgeois.
- Demonstrations of retrofitted helicopters and flight simulators.
- Metro Aviation operates over 160 air ambulances and employs 1,188 staff.
- Plans to acquire up to 20 Beta Alia A250 eVTOL aircraft, with lower operational costs than traditional air ambulances.
FAQ
What innovations is Metro Aviation showcasing?
How many employees does Metro Aviation have?
What are the operational costs for the Alia aircraft?
What challenges does Metro Aviation face with the Alia aircraft?
- Feature: Rapid Response Time App
- Feature: Pilots Tools for Low-Visibility Conditions
- Feature: Operation Control Center Updates
- Feature: Alia Aircraft Cost Efficiency
- Feature: Battery Capacity Challenges
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Shreveport a First Stop in Statewide Business Tour
- Vertical: Metro Aviation Signs for 20 Beta eVTOL Aircraft
- Airbus Press Release: Metro Aviation and Airbus Sign Agreement for up to 36 H140 Helicopters
- Flying Magazine: Metro Aviation Orders 20 Beta Electric VTOL Aircraft
- Wikipedia: Air Ambulance
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
