(New York State Police Troopers assist the patient onto a waiting plane, ensuring her safe transport for a life-saving heart transplant. Photo courtesy of New York State Police PIO.)
JAMESTOWN, NY — The unity of effort demonstrated by first responders, the New York State Police, and the Chautauqua County Airports Maintenance Team saved a life during last week’s severe winter storm.
On November 29, 2024, amid treacherous conditions, their teamwork ensured a 64-year-old woman en route to Cleveland Clinic for a heart transplant reached her destination in time.
The woman, traveling with her husband from Rochester, NY, became stranded on State Route 5 in Portland. Her battery-powered heart pump made the situation critical as the road conditions worsened. A nurse from Cleveland Clinic contacted the New York State Police, who quickly deployed resources.
(Chautauqua County’s maintenance crew cleared the runway, while Centric Aviation provided essential ground support, ensuring a smooth and timely departure for TPX Aircraft Solutions Inc. and the patient.)
Troopers located the couple using a Utility Task Vehicle and transported the patient to safety at the Portland Fire Department, then to Westfield Memorial Hospital. From there, they facilitated her transportation to Chautauqua County Jamestown Airport (JHW), where the county’s maintenance team had cleared the runway despite the storm ensuring it was safe and operational for use. Their efforts were complemented by Centric Aviation, who provided critical ground support services to facilitate the swift and seamless transport of the patient by TPX Aircraft Solutions Inc. to Cleveland Clinic, where she received the life-saving heart transplant.
“This extraordinary response underscores the importance of teamwork and preparation in our community. From the swift action of the State Police to the dedication of our airport maintenance team, everyone played a pivotal role in ensuring this woman could receive her heart transplant,” said Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “Maintaining our airports isn't just about supporting general aviation traffic & corporate traffic; it’s about being prepared for life-saving emergencies like this one, as well."
Highlighting the critical role of local airports during emergencies, Chautauqua County’s Manager of Airports for Chautauqua County praised the efforts of her team and emphasized the importance of maintaining operational readiness.
“Our team works year-round to keep the Jamestown (JHW) & Dunkirk (DKK) Airports operational, even in severe weather. This story highlights another reason why investing in our airports is vital—not just for leisure or business, but for emergencies that require rapid transportation,” said Shannon A. Fischer, Manager of Airports for Chautauqua. “We’re proud to have been part of this life-saving effort.”
The incident occurred during a winter storm that stretched from Thanksgiving to December 1, disrupting travel and challenging first responders across Western New York.
