The air ambulance industry in the UK is calling for urgent reforms to improve patient outcomes and ensure the long-term sustainability of critical emergency services. Air Ambulances UK, a not-for-profit organization representing the country’s 21 air ambulance providers, released a four-point policy plan today aimed at strengthening operations, infrastructure, and funding across the sector.
24/7 Helipads at Major Trauma Centers
At the top of Air Ambulances UK’s policy priorities is a demand for 24/7 operational helipads at all major trauma centers and specialist hospitals across the UK. The organization identified several healthcare facilities as being of “high or medium concern” due to limited helipad access, which restricts life-saving helicopter operations during critical hours.
“Infrastructure must match the urgency of care we provide,” said Jamie Ward, policy and public affairs manager at Air Ambulances UK. “Lives depend on it.”
Reinstating EGNOS for Safer Navigation
Another key demand is the temporary reinstatement of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS), which the UK lost access to after Brexit. EGNOS enhances GPS accuracy, especially in poor weather or low-visibility conditions, making it vital for air ambulance navigation and landing.
Industry leaders argue that restoring EGNOS would significantly boost safety and efficiency. “This isn’t just a technology issue—it’s a patient safety issue,” added Ward.
Better Access to Patient Data
Air Ambulances UK is also urging healthcare leaders to grant helicopter emergency medical teams full access to patient data. This would allow crews to track patient outcomes and improve care coordination with NHS services. The call is part of a broader push to integrate air ambulance operations more fully into the national healthcare system.
Raising Public Awareness and Funding
Despite their essential role, air ambulance services in the UK operate as independent charities, receiving little to no government funding. The sector performs an average of 126 missions per day, relying heavily on public donations.
Air Ambulances UK’s reform plan has received backing from key players in the aviation and healthcare sectors, including Airbus Helicopters, the British Helicopter Association, and the County Air Ambulance Trust’s HELP Appeal. With support mounting from across the air ambulance industry, the hope is that government and healthcare decision-makers will act swiftly to implement these critical reforms.
