Air Ambulance Northern Ireland has purchased its first helicopter, marking a major shift from leasing aircraft since the service launched in 2017.

The new helicopter, carrying the registration G-HMNI, is being procured through Sloane Helicopters and manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters. It is currently in the final stages of testing and medical fit-out and is scheduled to become the primary aircraft from late summer 2026.

Funding for the acquisition came after years of financial planning and donations from supporters, including gifts in wills. The charity has responded to more than 5,500 emergency call-outs across Northern Ireland, averaging 60 missions per month, working in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.

As a result of the investment, the service’s existing primary leased helicopter, G-HEMZ, will move into a backup role, while the current reserve aircraft, G-RSCU, will be retired from service. The new helicopter will follow the same daily shift pattern, operating from 7am to 7pm.

Dr David McManus, chair of Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, said the purchase represents a transformational step that will improve operational capability through greater automation, the ability to fly in adverse weather and during hours of darkness, and increased speed and payload. This will lead to better patient outcomes and support future development of the service.

Maxine Paterson, interim chief executive of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, welcomed the development, stating that the air ambulance plays a vital role in reaching patients in remote locations and time-critical emergencies, and that the purchase strengthens a service crucial to people across the region.

George George, managing director of Sloane Helicopters, said the addition marks an important milestone and reflects the charity’s ambition to invest in the future, enhance its offering, and drive operational excellence. He added that the firm was proud to support a team committed to safety and innovation.