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The Isle of Man has successfully secured its emergency air ambulance services for the next five years following a competitive tendering process. This decision comes after a period of uncertainty last year regarding the continuation of the island’s helicopter emergency medical service.
Manx Care confirmed that the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) will continue managing helicopter emergency medical services. Fixed-wing air ambulance services have now been awarded to IAS Medical, while Spark UK Medical will oversee road ambulance transfers from UK airports to hospitals. This comprehensive arrangement aims to provide a seamless emergency air bridge between the Isle of Man and specialist medical centers in the UK, including those specializing in major trauma and cardiac care.
Will Bellamy from Manx Care emphasized the importance of these agreements, stating that they represent “a significant step in protecting access to specialist care for our population.” He also underlined that the new contracts offer long-term stability while prioritizing safety, quality, and patient outcomes. The arrangement ensures that seriously ill or injured patients can be quickly transferred to the appropriate specialist facilities.
Previously, in March 2025, Manx Care revealed it could no longer sustain a monthly retainer for GNAAS’s helicopter service. As a result, both parties agreed on a temporary one-year contract beginning in April, with funding shifting to a per-mission model, accompanied by increased fundraising by GNAAS. Since 2022, the helicopter service has operated in conjunction with fixed-wing aircraft and coastguard support, forming what has been described as a “vital partnership.” The new contracts, secured for five years with an option to extend for two more, reflect a strong commitment to maintaining this invaluable service. GNAAS chief executive Joe Garcia noted the organization responds to about 20 incidents annually involving the Isle of Man. Peter Roberts of IAS Medical called the service a “lifeline for patients who need rapid access to specialist care” and expressed pride in ensuring transfers meet the highest clinical standards. Looking ahead, there is potential to expand the fixed-wing service to operate around the clock, depending on future funding. Laura Parry, head of ambulance operations at Spark UK Medical, also highlighted their role in supporting safe and timely patient transfers as part of this critical emergency air bridge
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