The Scottish Ambulance Service has awarded a new seven-year contract to Gama Aviation in partnership with Bond Air Services. The contract, valued at £120 million, is to provide both rotary and fixed-wing air ambulance services.

Under the new contract Bond will continue to use the current Eurocopter EC135T2i helicopters on an interim basis; however, from September 2014 the company will introduce two new medically-equipped Eurocopter EC145T2 helicopters by way of replacement. The new technology helicopters will further enhance the service by delivering improved range and endurance, while also providing larger payloads and increased cabin space. Gama will continue to operate the two existing King Air 200C aircraft based in Aberdeen and Glasgow.

Trained aviation specialists employed by Gama work directly alongside NHS Scotland personnel in the West of Scotland Ambulance Control Centre in Cardonald to assist in enhancing communications.

Chris Greenhill, md of Bond, said: "For 23 years Bond has enjoyed a successful partnership with the Scottish Ambulance Service. We look forward to continuing our partner-ship with Gama and enhancing our service."