Cornwall Air Ambulance

Cornwall Air Ambulance

Cornwall Air Ambulance logo

The Cornwall Air Ambulance is a dedicated helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) that operates in the county of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly in the United Kingdom. It was the first air ambulance service in the UK, established in 1987, and has since become a vital part of the emergency services in the region.

History

The Cornwall Air Ambulance was launched on 1 April 1987, following a successful fundraising campaign led by the local community. The service was initially operated using a MBB Bo 105 helicopter, which was later replaced by more advanced models to improve service efficiency and coverage.

Operations

Cornwall Air Ambulance beach landing, August 2008

The Cornwall Air Ambulance operates from its base at Newquay Airport. The service is available 365 days a year and is capable of reaching any location in Cornwall within 20 minutes. The helicopter is equipped with advanced medical equipment and staffed by highly trained paramedics and doctors.

The air ambulance responds to a variety of emergencies, including road traffic accidents, medical emergencies, and incidents in remote or difficult-to-access locations. The service is particularly crucial in Cornwall due to the county's rural landscape and the scattered nature of its population.

Fleet

G-CIOS MD900 Explorer Helicopter

The current fleet includes the MD 902 Explorer helicopter, which is known for its versatility and ability to land in confined spaces. The helicopter is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, allowing the crew to provide critical care to patients during transport.

Funding

The Cornwall Air Ambulance is a charity and relies heavily on donations from the public, fundraising events, and corporate sponsorships. The cost of running the service is significant, with expenses covering aircraft maintenance, fuel, and medical supplies.

Community Involvement

The local community plays a vital role in supporting the Cornwall Air Ambulance. Numerous fundraising events are held throughout the year, and many volunteers contribute their time and effort to ensure the service remains operational.

Impact

Air ambulance cliff rescue

Since its inception, the Cornwall Air Ambulance has flown thousands of missions, saving countless lives and providing critical care to those in need. The service has become an integral part of the emergency response system in Cornwall, offering rapid medical assistance in situations where time is of the essence.

Future Developments

The Cornwall Air Ambulance continues to evolve, with plans to upgrade its fleet and expand its capabilities. The charity is committed to maintaining its high standard of service and ensuring that it can meet the growing demands of the region.

Related Pages

• Air ambulance
• Emergency medical services in the United Kingdom
• Helicopter emergency medical service