The East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) can confirm it has terminated its contract with Sterling Aviation with immediate effect.

The charity will continue to operate two helicopters across the four counties it serves and these will be provided by Bond Air Services on an interim basis until a new contract has been awarded.

Steve Whitby, Deputy Chief Executive said: “Our first concern is, and always has been, the people of East Anglia and our priority is to make sure the people of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk are well served by a high quality air ambulance.  So, whilst we begin the process of finding a new permanent aircraft operator, it is very much business as usual for us. We have two helicopters serving the four counties and they continue to provide the same life-saving service.

“Over the past ten years the East Anglian Air Ambulance has developed a reputation for delivering the best possible pre-hospital care to the people of the region. Whilst the situation with Sterling Aviation is regrettable, we have to ensure we continue to operate to the highest standards possible. I am hugely encouraged that there has been a smooth transition to an interim operator and this is testament to a strong contingency plan. We are now beginning to take the formal steps necessary to bring in a new operator and we will do this with the support of our key stakeholders. ”

The EAAA is working closely with the East of England NHS Ambulance Trust (EEAST) on the tender process.