Commenting on the announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer today that London’s Air Ambulance is to be awarded £1 million to enable the charity to operate a second helicopter covering the capital, Chief Executive Officer, Graham Hodgkin said:

“This is fantastic news for the people of London as it is thanks to their support we are able to celebrate this milestone in the charity’s development.  £1 million will give us the opportunity to acquire a second helicopter to give London 100% air cover during summer daylight hours and maintenance periods.  In practical terms, we estimate we’ll now be able to reach a further 400 patients each year by helicopter.

“The money will cover the cost of running a second aircraft and extended flying hours for one year so we’ll also be stepping up our efforts to raise the £6 million a year needed to keep the helicopter trauma service running in the capital.”

London’s Air Ambulance’s advanced trauma team (a senior doctor and paramedic) carries out life-saving medical interventions at the scene usually only performed in  a hospital emergency department, giving anyone critically injured the best chance of survival.

Dr Gareth Davies, Medical Director and Chair of the Trustees of London’s Air Ambulance said: “The charity covers the 10 million people who live, work and travel in the capital.   In our 25th year of service, this donation is a tremendous boost for London’s ability to respond to emergencies as well as a tribute to the 30,000 patients we have treated so far”.