Business Support Crew marks milestone
A significant milestone was recorded in 2021 when, for the first time, the crew flew over 1,000 missions. If we go back 10 years, this means a 60 percent increase in mission numbers across Canterbury and the West Coast.
There are several factors behind the ongoing increase. Clearly population growth is one, so too are advances in avionics, including, of course, the new H145 arriving in August 2019 giving the region three rescue helicopters (two in Christchurch, one on the West Coast). This has made an even bigger difference in coverage and response times, especially in rural and remote areas. The more recent Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) project has had a similar impact, effectively allowing the Rescue Helicopter and crew to operate in more compromised weather conditions.
It is reassuring to know that more and more people continue to benefit from having the service available, 24/7. As many people say to me, “You just never know”.
Of course, our business support is fundamental in all of this, ultimately allowing the crew to provide patients with urgent medical intervention in the quickest possible time. Despite the uncertainty we are all experiencing at this time, our business supporters continue to go above and beyond with their generosity and support. Thank you to all those businesses for your loyalty and commitment in helping save lives.
Thank you also for taking the time to speak with myself, Janene and Diana. As always, if you have any questions about your support, or the service itself, please don’t hesitate to contact me anytime.
If you are interested in becoming a Mission Supporter, please contact Sean Simpson at sean@airrescue.co.nz or call him directly on 021 986 984.
Sean Simpson
Business Support Crew Coordinator
