Cornwall’s Lifesaving Helicopters: Major Boost as Air Ambulance Extends Castle Air Partnership

Cornwall Air Ambulance secures long-term partnership with Liskeard-based Castle Air

Cornwall Air Ambulance has confirmed a new deal with Castle Air Ltd, securing the company as the charity’s helicopter operations partner for the foreseeable future.

The Liskeard-based aviation specialist will continue to handle the maintenance and engineering of Cornwall Air Ambulance’s two AW169 helicopters, supporting their vital mission across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Trusted partnership since 2021

Castle Air has been working alongside the charity since 2021, bringing over 40 years’ experience in helicopter services both in the UK and internationally. In recent years, the company has expanded into Helicopter Emergency Medical Services management and operations.

Tim Bunting, Chief Executive at Cornwall Air Ambulance, said: “We are delighted to be working with Castle Air as the charity’s helicopter operations partner. We want to provide the very best service for the people of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, and Castle really bring that first-class support to our lifesaving operation.”

Tim praised Castle Air’s high standards over the past three years and added: “We look forward to expanding that working relationship, as they now take on the additional maintenance of our second aircraft.”

Second AW169 set to join the lifesaving fleet

The charity’s second AW169 helicopter, G-CNLL, is currently undergoing its medical fit, where all the essential components for critical care are being installed. Once ready, the helicopter will be sent to Castle Air for final inspections before entering service later this summer.

Ross Bunyard, Managing Director of Castle Air, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been awarded the management and operations contract for Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust’s helicopter fleet, which includes two Leonardo AW169 aircraft – G-CRWL and the brand-new G-CNLL.”

Ross added: “This long-term agreement marks a significant milestone in our ongoing partnership with the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust. We are committed to providing the highest levels of aircraft availability, ensuring these lifesaving helicopters remain ready to serve whenever they are needed most.”

Castle Air will also be making a substantial investment in parts, tooling and engineering capability dedicated specifically to the Cornwall Air Ambulance fleet.

“We are excited to continue working closely with the Cornwall Air Ambulance, supporting their vital mission and helping to deliver the very best in emergency aviation services for the region,” Ross said.