Three Midlands Air Ambulances return to the air
Three of the Eurocopter EC135 aircraft run by Midlands Air Ambulance will be operating normally from 7.00am this morning after they were grounded over safety fears on Sunday.
The three were grounded by operator, Bond Air Services due to cracks being found in the main rotor hub-shaft flange on three aircraft in other parts of Europe. No cracks have been found in any of the Midlands Air Ambulance aircraft.
Following further testing by Eurocopter, Bond has agreed to restart flights. Daily checks will be carried out on the potentially affected area until they are replaced by Eurocopter.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “Safety has to be the number one consideration for both patients and staff and we understand why Bond took the decision they did. However, it is important to note that at no time did the region not have access to air ambulance aircraft.
“The West Midlands is extremely fortunate to have access to no fewer than five air ambulances provided by two charities; three from Midlands Air Ambulance and two from The Air Ambulance Service.
“In addition, Bond flew in a replacement aircraft of a different type to RAF Cosford this afternoon which would have been available from Wednesday morning onwards had the EC 135s not been cleared to fly again.
“Clearly it is good news that we will be back up to the full complement of five aircraft. We are very grateful to the public of the West Midlands for the continued support they give, raising the money necessary to operate these aircraft.”
