Wales Air Ambulance unveils its latest lifesaving Airbus helicopter featuring a brand-new look

The Wales Air Ambulance Charity showcased its new Airbus aircraft and Rapid Response Vehicles today.

Funded by donations, the service operates a fleet equipped with advanced medical gear for on-site emergency treatments.

Following a 2022 rebrand, the charity revealed the new aircraft design. Over the summer, supporters voted online for their preferred aircraft registration from five options. The winner was G-LOYW, translating to bright or shining in Welsh.

Earlier, a seven-year aviation contract was awarded to Gama Aviation Plc, covering four Airbus H145 helicopters’ operation and maintenance.

Presently, the fleet consists of three H145 and one H135 helicopter, with plans to upgrade the H135 to maintain a uniform fleet.

The charity also introduced two Volvo CX90s to its Rapid Response Vehicles fleet, aligning with the new branding.

The design process was managed in-house by the Charity’s Communication Team, led by Lauren Berry and Laura Slate. “Working on the livery was a challenge we took great pride in,” said Laura. Lauren emphasized the meticulous considerations during the design phase, achieved with the support of the charity’s partners.

The design, executed in collaboration with Gama Aviation and The Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS), adheres to safety guidelines, retaining a strong Welsh identity with a red color scheme and a green dragon’s tail, reflecting the charity’s new logo. The design also features contour lines symbolising Wales’ diverse geographical landscape.

The transformation of the Rapid Response Vehicles from standard cars to emergency service vehicles was done by Welsh company, Polaris.

Dr. Sue Barnes, the Charity’s Chief Executive, noted the importance of reflecting Welsh pride through vehicle design and registrations.

Mark Smith from Gama Aviation and Mark Winter from EMRTS expressed their enthusiasm for the new partnership and community-responsive design.

The charity, requiring £11.2 million annually, operates through a unique Third Sector and Public Sector partnership, with EMRTS providing skilled NHS consultants and critical care practitioners.

G-LOYW will join the H145-model helicopters fleet later this year, with the Volvo CX90s now operational. Rebranding of the remaining fleet will occur during regular servicing in the upcoming months.