Cornwall Air Ambulance Marks Air Ambulance Week with Second Helicopter in Service

Cornwall Air Ambulance is marking a major milestone this Air Ambulance Week 2025 as it celebrates owning two AW169 helicopters.

The national awareness week, running from the 8th to 14th September, is organised by Air Ambulances UK and unites air ambulance charities across the country under one powerful message: “Every Mission Starts With You.”

A Royal Moment for Cornwall

This year has been one to remember for the charity. Following the success of the Heli2 Appeal, which raised £2.85 million towards an additional aircraft, Cornwall Air Ambulance officially welcomed its second helicopter last month.

The new AW169 was named The Duke of Cornwall during a Royal visit from Her Majesty The Queen, the charity’s Patron. The arrival marked the start of a new chapter, with the aircraft now completing its first month in service.

Chief Executive Tim Bunting said:
“What an incredible few months it has been for your charity! From the arrival of your second helicopter, to the ‘shakedown’ period where we visited local schools, the opening of a new shop in Truro, our flagship event Helifest at Scorrier House, the new aircraft going into operation for the first time and a Royal visit from Her Majesty the Queen, it has been a period of remarkable achievement. What better way to spend this Air Ambulance Week by celebrating the Heli2 mission and everyone who joined us along the way! Without your support, the crew would not be able to help those who are critically ill or injured across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Thank you for helping us to save even more lives for years to come.”

Saying Thank You

To mark Air Ambulance Week, the charity will hold a ‘thank-a-thon’, personally contacting supporters who donated during the Heli2 Appeal. It’s their way of showing gratitude to those who helped make the second helicopter a reality.

The Mission Continues

While the celebration marks huge progress, the charity’s work is far from over. Cornwall Air Ambulance still needs to raise more than £8 million this year to keep its operation running. With no direct government funding, it depends entirely on the generosity of communities, individuals, and businesses.

Those wishing to support can donate here: https://cornwallairambulancetrust.org/donate/