Devon Air Ambulance Helicopter in need of repair

This is because of damage the aircraft sustained during an emergency rescue task on Dartmoor. The aircraft skid was damaged during the landing on the moor, probably due to impact with a sub-surface rock; the damage only became apparent after the patient whom the crew were called to assist, was safely transferred to Derriford Hospital.

Devon Air Ambulance is working with Airbus Helicopters to ensure the aircraft is repaired, moved from the Derriford Helipad and back online as soon as possible. They anticipate that Airbus Helicopters will repair the aircraft on 11 January, after which it will fly back to their base at Exeter Airport. Following its return to base, the helicopter will remain offline for two to three days for planned maintenance to be carried out (unrelated to the Dartmoor incident).

While the H145 helicopter is offline, G-DAAN – the charity's EC135 Helicopter will fly in its place, and their two rapid response Critical Care Cars will continue to respond to those in need of urgent medical help across the county.