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Air Ambulance Takes Flight to New Southampton Base
9 Jun
Summary
- New £3.6 million airbase at Southampton Airport is now operational.
- Relocation aims to significantly reduce emergency response times.
- Over 13,000 donors contributed to the successful fundraising effort.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance has successfully relocated to its new, state-of-the-art airbase located at Southampton Airport. This significant move, made possible by a £3.6 million investment and the support of over 13,000 donors, marks a new chapter for the vital emergency service.
Operating previously from Thruxton, the charity's crews often faced extended journey times to reach incidents, particularly in the southern parts of the region. The new Southampton base strategically positions the air ambulance closer to key areas like Winchester, Southampton, and Portsmouth, as well as the Isle of Wight.
This relocation is expected to drastically cut down response times, with potential journey times reduced by up to 20 minutes. The new two-storey facility features a dedicated hangar for the helicopter, a helipad, administrative offices, crew accommodation, training rooms, and a garage for emergency response vehicles, enhancing operational efficiency and patient care.
