The Air Ambulance received their first two AW109SP Grand New.

The critical, lifesaving work of The Air Ambulance Service (TAAS) will be enhanced through the launch of two new, state-of-the-art helicopters that will enable the charity to continue its important work in supporting the NHS frontline across the Midlands.

The launch represents a substantial investment of more than £30million by the charity over the next seven years and is the culmination of an 18-month project to modernise and replace the Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA), and Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance (WNAA).

The official launch

The new aircraft were launched from Sywell Aerodrome in Northamptonshire, home of aircraft provider and project partner Sloane Helicopters Limited, before flying to their respective homes at East Midlands Airport for DLRAA and Coventry Airport for WNAA.

The Air Ambulance new AW109SP

The new AW109 derivative was chosen for its proven performance as the world’s fastest commercial twin-engine helicopter but also its ability to start-up and shut-down engines in a much shorter time than many of its competitors. These seconds and minutes saved can often be vital in terms of delivering the lifesaving critical care medicine to patients.

The operating crew

The new helicopters, which will be crewed by a pilot, doctor, and critical care paramedic, offer an improved clinical area for the crews to work in while caring for a patient which includes a new syringe pump system as well as better storage solutions for vital lifesaving equipment such as a defibrillator, ventilator, ultrasound, and other vital medical equipment.

For more visit the Official Website