Cornwall Air Ambulance Experiences Busiest May on Record

Cornwall Air Ambulance has experienced its busiest May on record after being tasked to 117 missions last month.

Figures from the charity show a rise in taskings of almost 20% compared to May 2023.

It comes as the charity reaches the halfway point in its Heli2 appeal, as it aims to raise £2.85million to help secure a second AW169 helicopter for the people of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Steve Garvey, Air Operations Officer, said:

“May was our busiest month of the year so far, our missions included a range of trauma and medical related incidents including 26 cardiac arrests, 11 road traffic collisions, three inter-hospital transfers and 10 taskings to the Isles of Scilly alone. A rise in emergency calls means a growing pressure on our aircrew, with more back-to-back missions, as well as higher demand on our aircraft.”

The Heli2 appeal has now reached the £1million mark, but with only six months left of the appeal year, there is still a long way to go.

Tim Bunting, Chief Executive Officer, said:

“Nobody ever expects to need the help of Cornwall Air Ambulance, but we are your charity, and we are here for you if you should ever need us. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has donated towards the appeal so far, you are making a lifesaving difference. There are so many different ways that you can play your part in helping to bring the second helicopter to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, from playing our raffle to having your name featured on the aircraft. Ultimately, your support will mean the crew can attend more missions by air, and help to save even more lives.”

Find out how you can support the Heli2 appeal here.