Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has welcomed the launch of Scotland's first charity-funded air ambulance helicopter.The aircraft will be based at Perth airport and will work alongside the two existing Scottish Ambulance Service aircraft.Attending the launch at Scone Airport, Liz Smith MSP said: “The new charity air ambulance will be a key resource when it comes to assisting with the transfer of critically ill patients from the more remote parts of the country and it will also assist with serious road accidents which, as we all know, are far too frequent in this part of the world, especially on the A9. In many cases, in winter weather, speedy rescue work can be impeded by difficult conditions on the roads. It is therefore a real bonus to have an additional air ambulance to work alongside the other emergency services.
“John Bullough (SCAA chairman), Gavin Davey (SCCA chief executive), their trustees, their partners in NHS Scotland, the Scottish Ambulance Service and the Scottish Government, and, of course, Bond Air Services who will supply the aircraft, pilots and engineers, are all to be warmly congratulated on this first class initiative. “I hope once the charity air ambulance is operational more volunteers across Scotland will come forward to help assist with much needed fundraising to meet the £1.5m operational cost every year. Any members of the public or any corporate bodies who feel they can help with this process or hosting relevant events should get in touch with SCAA with their ideas.
“This project is one of the best things that has happened in Perthshire. It has successfully brought together the public, big business and local community groups. It is now up to all of us to support it in the future.”