Our partnership with Sloane Helicopters Limited
We have a long standing partnership with Sloane Helicopters, who provide us with two Leonardo AW109 helicopters, pilots and aircraft maintenance. Our primary aircraft, AW109S Grand, and our backup, AW109E Power, benefit patients thanks to rapid start-up and shut-down times, together with a high cruise speed which means the HEMS team can reach patients quickly.
Helimed23
Call sign
5 minutes
Time from task to take-off
<25 mins
Average time to reach patient
Inside The Air Ambulance
Delivering critical care in emergency situations requires an environment equipped to deal with almost anything. It’s vital the air ambulance is well-organised, well-stocked and well-maintained. Take a look inside our primary (G-HEMZ) and secondary (G-RSCU) helicopters below.
Our Aircrafts
The Leonardo AW109S Grand is a twin-engine helicopter capable of cruising at speeds of up to 165 knots (around 190 mph), covering approximately 3.2 miles per minute over the ground. Weighing around three tonnes, it is powered by two Pratt & Whitney gas turbine engines and runs on Jet A1 aviation fuel, with a fuel capacity of up to 500 litres.
The aircraft requires a landing area of approximately 28 square metres—roughly the size of a tennis court. It is capable of flying into and above cloud, subject to weather limitations, and any descent back through cloud to the ground must be conducted at an approved airfield equipped with instrument landing systems.
Rapid Response Vehicle
The Air Ambulance rapid response vehicle, provided by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, is used for two main reasons: in response to incidents in close proximity to our base, or when the helicopter is unable to fly due to weather conditions.
Cost and Fundraising Needs
We aspire to raise £8,200 per day in fundraising, or £3 million per year to keep us operational. Whether it’s a one-time donation, leaving a gift in your Will, joining one of our events or hosting a fundraiser, your support means we can be there when we’re needed.
Helpful Information
I have a cash donation, how do I deposit this?
Please get in contact with our team by phoning 028 9262 2677 (Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm) or by sending us a message here.
What is the minimum monthly donation to become a Club AANI member?
Beginning at £10 a month, you can become one of our valued Club AANI members.
I have a special celebration coming up and would like to have donations to Air Ambulance NI, what materials will I be provided?
We can provide fundraising buckets, smaller collection boxes, balloons, plastic banners, donation envelopes and leaflets to you free of charge. We would ask that all buckets or boxes be returned to us after your fundraiser is over.
