Every minute saved in reaching a patient could be the minute that saves their life.
The biggest leap forward in our charity’s history
Since our first flight in July 2007, our team of doctors, dispatchers, pilots and paramedics have responded to more than 19,000 emergencies across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight from our airbase in Thruxton, Andover.
When every second counts, we bring advanced critical care, usually found in a hospital emergency department, to our patients – be it beachside, roadside, countryside or bedside – giving them the best chance of survival and recovery.
But when it comes to saving lives, time is critical. And now we have the chance to reduce our response times to the majority of our calls by positioning ourselves in a more central location.
70% of our missions are to the south of the region: Winchester, Southampton, Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight – a considerable distance from our current airbase.
Reduced excess flying and driving time to and from Thruxton will drastically improve response times and minimise flying and travel time – allowing the teams to be restocked, refuelled and ready to respond to more emergencies than ever before.
Dr Simon Hughes, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Clinical Lead, said:
“This move will be the single biggest leap forward in our 17-year history. It has long been a dream of our team to operate from a location that is truly central within our community. From day one in our new home, response times will be faster, patient outcomes will be better – and lives will be saved that would otherwise have been lost.”
Dr Simon Hughes
Now we need your help
We have received approval to purchase a building near Southampton Airport – which will secure the future of our service and help us reach the people who need us most in the fastest possible time.
Please support our Operation Airbase Appeal today, to help bring our life-saving service to the centre of our community.
