Charity orders 'lifesaver' hi-tech air ambulance

An artist's impression shows what the new helicopter is expected to look like

Scotland's Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA) is to introduce what it describes as the UK's most advanced medical transport helicopter.

SCAA said it expected the hi-tech aircraft which is customised for medical flights would be ready for service, based in Aberdeen, later this year.

Crews will be equipped with night vision technology, to allow 24-hour operation, and weather radar capabilities.

"It will be a lifesaver," SCAA chief executive David Craig said. "It will be the most capable air ambulance of its kind in the UK".

It will replace the current helicopter at the SCAA Aberdeen base, which has been operating for several years.

Mr Craig described the change as one of the most significant developments in the charity's history, allowing it reach more patients in difficult conditions.

David Craig said it was a significant move

"No-one in Scotland should die because help can't get there in time," he said.

"This new helicopter will offer greater range, endurance and capacity which significantly enhances our life-saving service and our ability to meet the ever-growing demand on pre-hospital emergency response teams."

It allows additional flight time, helping crews to assist in more remote areas.

The current charity air ambulance helicopter will be replaced with a more modern aircraft

SCAA operates two helicopter emergency response air ambulances, based at Perth since 2013 and Aberdeen since 2020.

It hopes to start using the new Airbus H145 D3 helicopter in October.