Aspirus opens dual helipad to boost emergency air transport capacity

January 5, 2026

WAUSAU – Aspirus Wausau Hospital has opened a dual helipad, replacing its former single landing area and enabling two helicopters to land next to the emergency department for faster patient transfer.

Chad Eckhard, base aviation manager and helicopter pilot, said the upgrade comes amid rising MedEvac demand.

Eckhard said Aspirus manages more than 600 helicopter transports annually, often involving patients needing immediate trauma, cardiac, stroke or other specialized services.

The dual-pad design, he said, ensures helicopters can land without delay, even during multiple-patient events or simultaneous calls.

“This helps us move patients quickly and safely to the care they need,” he said. “It is better for the patients, safer for the crews and a positive step for the community.”

Furthermore, Eckhard said the helipad incorporates several safety-focused enhancements, including a heated snow-melt system, pilot-controlled lighting and planned GPS flight approaches for lower-visibility conditions.

Jason Keffeler – Aspirus system director of MedEvac and Trauma – said these features reduce delays and strengthen safety for patients and clinical teams.

“As volumes increase, it is important that we do not have to wait for one aircraft to move before another can land,” he said. “This investment improves efficiency and supports the highest level of care for our region.”

Keffeler said the helipad project is part of broader facility planning at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, complementing recent emergency department expansions and long-term specialty-care growth.