Business Support Crew Update

October and November have seen some of the busiest days for the crew, with as many as eight missions in one day. In the past week alone, 24 missions have been flown. It brings to mind the impact of having the second helicopter available for Canterbury. This impact can’t be overstated, especially as the crew can now be in two places at once. This has enhanced our ability as first response, especially in remote and rural areas.

As Crew Chief Rick Knight told me, the overall benefits to the region are wide-reaching. “With ICU transfers, the chopper can be off-base sometimes up to 5 hours. With two crews, two pilots, bigger teams, the region has greater protection and coverage.”

This includes incidents which require both rescue helicopters to attend, such as multiple-patient motor vehicle accidents. “It eliminates having to have two patients transported in the one helicopter”, says Rick, “which is never ideal for patient or crew”.

A second helicopter also frees up the crew to conduct training exercises, such as winch training. It also allows coverage while a machine is off-line for scheduled maintenance. “It’s all about that coverage.’ says Rick. “Our ability to provide patients with the best possible outcome. That’s the bottom line”.

2020 has undoubtedly been a year of uncertainty and we’re more than mindful of the impact the year has had on many. We continue to be incredibly grateful to all those business supporters who have been willing and able to jump back on board with support in 2020.

We’ve had a number of new Mission Supporters, those who have provided the full funding shortfall of a single mission at $5,000, and we look forward to dedicating a full rescue mission to your business.

As we head towards our peak holiday/summer season, to all those business supporters across Canterbury and the West Coast, our genuine thanks on behalf of the crew, and the patients we will no doubt be called upon to rescue.

Sean Simpson

Business Support Crew