Wales Air Ambulance appeals for donations as Middle East conflict pushes up aviation fuel costs
Wales Air Ambulance Charity is asking the public for donations after a sharp rise in aviation fuel costs linked to the war in the Middle East.
The charity says that even if the conflict ended immediately, it would still face around £50,000 in additional costs because of the sustained increase in fuel prices.
Wales Air Ambulance covers the whole of Wales, including north Wales, and its crews respond to some of the most serious medical emergencies in the region.
Captain James Gardiner, a pilot with the service, said: “Every time we take off, we know someone on the ground is relying on us during one of the worst moments of their life.
“Fuel isn’t just a cost for us, it’s what allows us to take our A&E-standard care to patients, wherever they are in Wales, and then take them to the most appropriate specialist care centre for their needs.
“When fuel prices rise this sharply, it has a real impact.”
The charity raises £13 million each year to keep its helicopters flying and rapid response vehicles on the road.
Spring and summer add further pressure on costs, with longer daylight hours and better weather typically leading to more flying hours and a higher volume of call-outs.
Dr Sue Barnes, Chief Executive of Wales Air Ambulance, said: “The war in the Middle East has created an unexpected and, we hope, temporary challenge.
“Global fuel markets do not respond instantly to geopolitical change, and we anticipate that any reduction in costs following the end of the war would be gradual and spread over a prolonged period.
“When someone’s life is at risk, our crews must be ready to fly, no matter the distance or the time of day.”
The service is consultant-led, with NHS consultants and critical care practitioners from the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service working on board.
Crews are able to administer anaesthesia, carry out blood transfusions and perform minor operations at the scene of an incident.
Anyone wishing to donate can do so at walesairambulance.com/fuel-cost-appeal.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
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