Medical Air Evacuation

Is it covered?

Covered by All Plans

TRICARE only covers medical air evacuation when:

  • A “land” ambulance can’t get to you.
  • The nearest facility is far away or there are other obstacles.
  • You must get care quickly for your medical condition.
You can’t safely get the care you need in your location.

Description

Medical air evacuation is the emergency medical transport of a patient. It uses an airplane or helicopter when ground transport is unsafe, blocked, or unavailable. 

Requirements

You must go to the closest medical facility that can provide the necessary acute care. This may be the nearest military hospital or clinic.

Are you overseas? Contact International SOS to confirm coverage before you receive ambulance support.

Costs

Your costs depend on your plan, your beneficiary category, and where you get care. Check your health plan costs to find what applies to you.

Active duty service members and active duty family members: Are you enrolled in a TRICARE Prime option overseas? You have cashless and claimless air evacuation for medical emergencies. Contact International SOS for assistance.

Exclusions

TRICARE doesn’t cover air evacuations that:

  • Aren’t medically necessary
  • Don’t go to the nearest medical facility or military hospital or clinic
  • Are primarily for the purpose of transporting you closer to your home, family, or doctor

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Last Updated 10/1/2026