Cornwall Air Ambulance Sees Record-Breaking Month: May’s Unprecedented Mission Surge

Cornwall Air Ambulance has experienced its busiest May on record, responding to 117 missions throughout the month. This marks an almost 20% increase in taskings compared to May 2023.

Steve Garvey, Air Operations Officer, reported, “May was our busiest month of the year so far. Our missions included a range of trauma and medical-related incidents, including 26 cardiac arrests, 11 road traffic collisions, three inter-hospital transfers, and 10 taskings to the Isles of Scilly alone.”

The rise in emergency calls has led to increased pressure on the aircrew, with more back-to-back missions and higher demand on their aircraft.

Heli2 Appeal Milestone

The surge in missions comes as the charity’s Heli2 Appeal has surpassed the £1 million mark. This appeal aims to secure a second AW169 helicopter for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly by the end of the year.

Karen Hurn, Head of Fundraising and Philanthropy, expressed her gratitude: “This is a fantastic milestone to reach halfway through the year, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has donated so far. There is still a long way to go to hit our £2.85 million target, and there are so many different ways that you can get involved. By supporting the Heli2 Appeal, in whatever way you choose, you really can make a lifesaving difference.”

Enhancing Capabilities

The addition of a second high-specification aircraft will significantly enhance the service’s capabilities. The new AW169 helicopter boasts high weight and fuel capacities, ample space for kit and crew, and the ability to conduct Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) operations at night. This means the crew can always respond with the most suitable helicopter, attending more missions by air.

Tim Bunting, Chief Executive, highlighted the importance of community support: “Cornwall Air Ambulance is your charity. We’re here for you if you should ever need us, and you can help us be there for more people across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly for years to come. Purchasing a second AW169 helicopter will massively improve the versatility and capability of our service, putting us at the forefront of advanced critical care. Your support will help us to save even more lives.”

How You Can Help

With less than six months left to reach the £2.85 million target, there are various ways to support the Heli2 Appeal. From becoming a Heli2 Hero and having your name featured on the second helicopter, to playing the BIG Heli2 Raffle or funding a mission, every contribution counts.

Find out all the different ways you can support the #HELi2 appeal here: Cornwall Air Ambulance Heli2 Appeal.