Press Release

Issued by Green Charter 2022.

January 13, 2015

Two new helicopters to serve the people of Cornwall and Isles of Scilly were unveiled yesterday by Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust. The charity, which was the first service of its kind in the UK, has flown nearly 25,000 missions since 1987, saving countless lives.

The new aircraft – MD902 Explorers – mark the start of a new operating agreement with Medical Aviation Services (MAS). The aircraft were chosen by the Trust for their extra payload allowing more crew, equipment or fuel.

In addition to a specially designed medical interior, MAS has equipped each helicopter with NVIS and a Trakkabeam searchlight in a newly designed nose-mounted arrangement.

The NVIS capability will enable the air ambulance to immediately extend flying to 12 hours per day, 365 days of the year. The charity estimates this change could enable them to fly up to an extra 50 missions each year.

Lady Mary Holborow, chairman of Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, said: “I am immensely proud that we are able to provide an even better service to the people of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Henk Schaeken, managing director of Medical Aviation Services, said: “MAS is delighted to have been able to contribute to the innovative new service provided by Cornwall Air Ambulance and we look forward to working alongside the charity and develop the service even further over the next few years.”

Medical Aviation Services is part of the Specialist Aviation Services Group.