UK-based Synergy Aviation has based a King Air 200 and flight crew dedicated to air ambulance work at Malta's Luqa Airport. Synergy md Glen Heavens says: "Configured with a Lifeport stretcher system and five passenger seats, the aircraft is available 24-7 and will primarily serve North Africa."

The King Air was quickly booked for a flight to Tripoli to help an oil worker with acute appendicitis. "Having an air ambulance based in Malta and another based in London gives us the flexibility to react quickly to our customers' requirements throughout Europe and North Africa," says Heavens. "We are eyeing further opportunities in the Mediterranean."

In Malta, Synergy is co-operating with Medilink International which serves clients throughout Europe, Africa and the Mediterranean.

Prime minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi says Synergy is providing a welcome contribution to Malta's high level of medical care.

Back in the UK Heavens recently made a novel landing on to a polo field in a Piper Warrior trainer to raise money for local charity Children with Special Needs Foundation. Synergy Aviation donated a flying lesson from its flying school, Fairoaks Flight Centre, located near Woking in Surrey, which was raffled after the final of the Smatt's International Eduardo Moore Polo tournament, raising £178.

Synergy's management team topped the total to £250 and the winning ticket went to an amateur pilot. More than 200 guests watched the popular polo fixture at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club event in Windsor.