UK-based Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance is one step closer to having its AW169 operational after the aircraft recently arrived at Gloucestershire airport to be configured for air ambulance operations. This is expected to be completed within six weeks.

“It is a very exciting time for us as we near the day that the AW169 will be seen flying above the region's skies,” says chief executive Karen Jobling. “The aircraft has many benefits which will increase the level of care and treatment that we can offer to patients, increasing their chances of survival and recovery.

“It is thanks to the support of everyone who has raised funds for our charity that we can invest in this aircraft; it will make such a difference to so many lives.”

Once the medical fit is complete, the AW169 will be flown to its base at RAF Waddington. Pilots, paramedics and doctors will carry out extensive training on the new aircraft. The charity's current MD902 will continue in service in the interim.

“The AW169 will be the same distinctive emergency yellow colour with Lincs & Notts branding, but that is where the similarities end,” Jobling explains. “The AW169 is bigger, faster, has greater endurance and will allow the crew to have 360-degree access to the patient in-flight. We are hopeful that we will be flying it before the end of the year.”