LNAA orders £7 million helicopter to boost emergency coverage by 2027

Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) has secured a production slot for a twin-engine AW109 GrandNew, which can reach speeds of up to 177mph, after raising an initial £4 million.

According to the charity, the helicopter is expected to be delivered by manufacturer Leonardo in summer 2027 and will begin responding to emergencies by the autumn.

Karen Jobling, the charity’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are absolutely delighted to share this incredible news with our supporters. The addition of a second helicopter means that we will be able to attend more emergencies, more quickly, and provide critical care to more patients who might not otherwise have access in time. This is truly a life-changing development for the communities we are here to serve.

“Every life we save is a thanks to the people who support LNAA. The second helicopter will belong to everyone who has ever donated, fundraised, or supported us in any way. It will save many more lives, and we could not achieve this without them.”

Based in Lincoln

Funding for the new helicopter has come from donors and a fundraising campaign called Mission Possible 2. Although the order has been confirmed, an additional £3 million is still required.

The LNAA said the incoming model is more compact than its current AW169 aircraft, making it “ideal for landing in tight landing areas” and capable of flying “in a wider range of conditions”.

Initially stationed in Lincoln, the helicopter will cover approximately 3,500 square miles across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.

US healthcare provider Intermountain Health has also recently acquired an AW109.