THE Great North Air Ambulance (GNAAS) has revealed that they have purchased a new helicopter to join the fleet.

The new aircraft is currently undergoing an extensive refit which will transform it from executive transport to a ‘flying emergency department’. It is considerably more powerful and can therefore carry more fuel, which in turn gives it a greater range.

This means the team will be able to respond to multiple call-outs without having to stop to refuel, saving vital minutes in the event of an emergency.

The helicopter is expected to arrive in spring 2020 and it will be fitted in a way that allows for 360 degree patient access in the rear cabin.