Air ambulance prices more than doubled between 2008 and 2017

Air ambulances' use declined between 2008 and 2017 among people with employer coverage, but the average price of a trip more than doubled, according to new data from the Health Care Cost Institute, which is funded by insurers.

Why it matters: Air ambulances are a frequent source of surprise medical bills, and often aren't covered by private insurance. These bills can be for eye-popping amounts.

Details: There are 2 types of air ambulances, airplanes and helicopters. The use of helicopter ambulances declined by 14.3%, while the use of airplanes stayed about the same.

• The average price of a helicopter ride increased from $11,414 in 2008 to $27,894 in 2017, or 144%. The price of a plane ride rose from from $15,684 to $41,674, or 166%.
• However, prices varied widely.

Go deeper:

• How air ambulances got so expensive
• Air ambulances are expensive and most likely out of network
• Emergency room visits create financial disruptions for patients