Lift off for first 'air ambulance'

China's first official medical helicopter prepares for takeoff on its maiden flight on Tuesday. Residents in Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei province can call 101-999 for the service and indemnity is organized by the Red Cross Society of China and a leading insurance company to cover the huge cost of a call-out. An annual premium of 299 yuan ($49) covers claims of up to 30,000 yuan ($4,907) while an annual 999 yuan ($163) premium covers claims of up to 300,000 yuan. [Photo by Wang Jing/Asianewsphoto]