The U.S. Air Force has continually sought to advance its aeromedical critical care transport capabilities, a pursuit that led to the development of the Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCATT) concept in the early 1990s. This initiative was spearheaded at the 59th Medical Wing at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas, by Maj. Gen. P.K. Carlton and Col. Chris Farmer. Their pioneering work involved creating the foundational concept of operations, outlining equipment allowances, and establishing an action plan to formalize the CCATT program within the Air Force.
In 1994, the 59th Medical Wing initiated the CCATT proof-of-concept, establishing the CCATT Pilot Unit. This unit played a crucial role in shaping the program by providing essential recommendations concerning the training, equipping, and operational deployment of CCATT teams. By 1995, CCATTs from both the 59th Medical Wing and the 81st Medical Group at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi were actively deployed to support overseas contingency operations, demonstrating the rapid integration and utility of this capability.
Following a successful two-year proof-of-concept period concluding in 1996, CCATT was officially recognized, approved, and integrated into the USAF Aeromedical Evacuation System. This formal adoption marked a significant milestone in enhancing the Air Force’s ability to provide critical care during aeromedical evacuations, leveraging Air Force Transport Aircraft to their fullest potential in medical scenarios.
Since its inception, CCATTs have been integral to a wide array of critical missions, including Operation Uphold Democracy, Operation Joint Endeavor, and the sustained efforts of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. These operations highlight the consistent and crucial role of CCATT in diverse and demanding environments, underscoring the importance of air force transport aircraft in extending advanced medical care globally.
Recognizing the increasingly vital role of CCATTs in aeromedical evacuation missions, the Air Force Surgeon General announced in 2018 an initiative to further expand CCATT capabilities to effectively meet the evolving needs of warfighters. To rapidly increase CCATT capacity, the Air Force Medical Service (AFMS) has optimized CCATT training courses and resource allocation, enabling candidates to complete required courses in quick succession. This streamlined approach allows personnel to intensely focus on acquiring and refining the specialized skills necessary for in-flight critical care environments. As the Air Force adapts its forces to address future challenges, the CCATT capability, facilitated by air force transport aircraft, is poised to become even more indispensable.
