21 Oct 2013
We have moved the overnight airbase from Denham to RAF Northolt. The relocation of our MD902 Explorer helicopter (the quietest in its class) to the Royal Air Force base in South Ruislip will reduce flight time to and from the helipad at The Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel, thereby saving on fuel costs.
The close proximity of RAF Northolt to Whitechapel and the direct helicopter route between the two destinations will save three minutes in flying time at the beginning and end of each day. As well as reducing overall fuel consumption, we have also secured a favourable fuel rate with Air BP.
The airbase’s position closer to sea level will potentially reduce the impact of adverse weather conditions, such as low cloud, for our life-saving service. As a military station, RAF Northolt guarantees a high level of security to its occupants and has superb facilities.
Commenting, Graham Hodgkin, Chief Executive Officer of London’s Air Ambulance, said: “We are extremely thankful to Denham airfield for their support and hard work over the years. The expiry of that contract however created an opportunity to review our airbase facilities and RAF Northolt offers excellent benefits to our service, both operationally and in cost savings for the Charity”.
Wing Commander Dan Storr, Officer Commanding Operations Wing at RAF Northolt, said: “We are delighted to be able to host London’s Air Ambulance at RAF Northolt. That this move also provides significant benefits to the Charity, and therefore to its users, is a welcome bonus. We look forward to working closely with the London’s Air Ambulance team in support of the vital work they undertake.”
