7 Dec 2018
The London’s Air Ambulance helicopter is currently undergoing its annual maintenance service which is due to take approximately 18 days. During this time we will continue to provide 24/7 advanced trauma care for London, delivering the same medical team, expertise and equipment to scene via our rapid response cars. This was the case prior to 2014, as we do in darkness hours and at other times when our single helicopter is unavailable for either mechanical or weather-related reasons.
For safety reasons, London’s Air Ambulance has always had a policy of flying with two pilots while operating over the congested and densely populated area of London. In 2014 it was possible to rent a relief helicopter of the same type, an MD902 Explorer, to cover this maintenance period. In 2015 there is currently no appropriately equipped helicopter available to operate under the current multi pilot rules. The intended acquisition of a second helicopter by London’s Air Ambulance will permanently resolve this issue.
When seconds count, the most effective way to reach critically injured patients is by helicopter. At the end of January we are launching a public appeal to raise the remaining funds needed to secure a second aircraft to ensure there is always a helicopter available for London in daylight hours.