CalStar was named program of the year by Airbus Helicopters.

The award is given each year to an emergency medical services program that has demonstrated superior levels of safety consciousness, patient care, quality leadership, and community and industry service.

Founded in 1983, CalStar is now a leading provider of emergency medical transport services for critically ill or injured patients in California and Northern Nevada. CalStar, which has a base in South Lake Tahoe, has safely transported more than 62,000 patients to hospitals and specialized treatment centers.

CalStar launched a plan four years ago to replace 24 legacy aircraft with new EC135s and King Air B200s, leading to an estimated savings of $5 million per year in costs related to maintenance, training, and support.