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New air ambulance takes to the sky

Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA) took to the sky for the first time this morning (1 April 2008) as the new local air ambulance became fully operational from its base at East Midlands Airport.

Following incredible support over the last five months from local businesses and people in the community, the new heli is now in action. Paul Phillips, CEO of East Midlands Ambulance Service and Malcolm Hazell, Chair of Trustees of the Charity officially launched DLRAA at 8.00 a.m. by cutting the ribbon in front of the new Agusta 109 helicopter.

DLRRA staff and crew were joined by staff from the airport and East Midlands Ambulance Service, fundraisers, volunteers and local VIPs, to welcome the helicopter to its base and see it lift off into action for the first time.

As he cut the ribbon, Malcolm Hazell said: “I am delighted to officially launch Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland Air Ambulance and declare the service fully operational from today. This fantastic helicopter is unrivalled in terms of performance and suitability as an air ambulance. It will be taking the hospital to the field, flying the most qualified paramedics and doctors to the scene of incidents where speed is paramount in saving lives. The Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Rutland Air Ambulance is a very capable emergency service and I am thrilled to welcome the crew and helicopter to its base, here at East Midlands Airport” 

Paul Phillips added: “This is the start of an exciting new era for air ambulance services in Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland. The team is highly experienced and motivated, and it shares EMAS’ ambition to provide the best of care for local people. We have already seen strong local support and I am confident that the new air ambulance will go from strength to strength.”

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