Boston MedFlight, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Bedford, Massachusetts that for more than 35 years has provided critical care medical transport to patients in need by air and ground, has announced the promotions of Mark Onorato to director of aviation operations and Nate Fancher to chief pilot. Onorato takes over for Rick Ruff and Fancher replaces Lynda Colarossi, both of whom are retiring.

Onorato is a career Army aviator and instructor pilot and has also spent time managing the FBI’s aviation program. In his new role he will be responsible for the safe and efficient daily operation of Boston MedFlight’s air ambulance program.

Fancher has more than 19 years of helicopter air ambulance experience, including nine years with Boston MedFlight. He also served as the aviation site manager for ERA Helicopters during Boston MedFlight’s transition to their Part 135 certificate. He will be responsible for supervising the organization’s pilot group and aviation training program.

“We are pleased to have both Mark and Nate on board to transition to director of aviation operations and chief pilot for Boston MedFlight,” said Rick Kenin, chief operation officer for transport. “Both are replacing two of the best in Rick Ruff and Lynda Colarossi as they retire after tremendous careers that resulted in positive impacts on both Boston MedFlight and the air ambulance industry. Mark has made great strides recently as our aviation safety manager and Nate has been a great leader since he joined us. We wish both of them well in their new roles in which we know they will be successful.”

Boston MedFlight is the primary provider of critical care medical transport by air and ground in Massachusetts, caring for more than 4,700 patients annually, including the most critically ill and injured infants, children and adults. As a nonprofit, the organization provides over $5 million in free and unreimbursed care to patients in need with little or no medical insurance. 

This press release was prepared and distributed by Boston MedFlight.