Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance

Air ambulance service in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, England

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance logo

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) is a dedicated air ambulance service that provides emergency medical assistance to the counties of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight in England. The service operates a helicopter that is equipped with advanced medical equipment and staffed by highly trained medical personnel.

History

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance was established to provide rapid response medical care to the region. The service officially commenced operations in 2007, with the aim of delivering critical care to patients in need, particularly in remote or difficult-to-access areas.

Operations

Eurocopter EC135 helicopter used by HIOWAA

The air ambulance operates a Eurocopter EC135, a versatile and reliable helicopter model that is well-suited for medical missions. The helicopter is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, allowing the onboard medical team to provide advanced life support to patients during transport.

The service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and can be dispatched to a wide range of emergencies, including road traffic accidents, medical emergencies, and other incidents requiring urgent medical attention.

Funding

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance is a charity-funded organization, relying on donations from the public and support from local businesses and community groups. The cost of operating the service is significant, covering expenses such as fuel, maintenance, and medical supplies.

Medical Team

The medical team aboard the air ambulance typically consists of a paramedic and a doctor, both of whom are trained in pre-hospital emergency medicine. The team is capable of performing a range of medical procedures on-site, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care before reaching a hospital.

Base of Operations

The air ambulance is based at Thruxton Aerodrome, which provides a strategic location for rapid deployment across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. The aerodrome offers the necessary facilities for helicopter operations, including refueling and maintenance services.

Impact

HIOWAA helicopter in flight

Since its inception, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance has made a significant impact on the region's emergency medical services. By providing rapid response and advanced medical care, the service has improved patient outcomes and saved numerous lives.

Future Developments

The charity continues to explore ways to enhance its services, including the potential acquisition of new aircraft and the expansion of its medical capabilities. Ongoing fundraising efforts are crucial to these developments, ensuring that the air ambulance can continue to serve the community effectively.

Related Pages

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

HIOWAA helicopter on the ground