Essex & Herts Air Ambulance welcomes second AW169

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) has welcomed a new state-of-the-art AW169 helicopter, which started service from its Earls Colne air base on Tuesday 4 June.

According to the charity, the £8.5 million required for the purchase was fueled by funds raised by supporters, together with personal and thoughtful gifts from donors.

Jane Gurney, CEO of EHAAT, commented: “Owning two state-of-the-art helicopters benefits the local communities we serve by allowing us to fly faster and further. But, most importantly, the AW169 maximizes patient outcomes by providing the space required to carry all the medical equipment needed, including blood, for lifesaving interventions at the scene, as well as allowing the clinicians to comfortably care for the patient while en route to major trauma centers and specialist hospitals.

“It has been a pleasure to have the team at Gama Aviation and Leonardo join us on the introduction of this new aircraft, for training the crews and fitting the fully customized medical interior to our specifications, which will allow EHAAT to continue to deliver the best possible pre-hospital care and help our lifesaving mission,” she added.

EHAAT is showcasing the new helicopter at its ‘Heli-bration’ event on Sunday 14 July in the grounds of Hatfield House, in Hertfordshire.