Air Ambulance NI appeals for public support as over 60 Christmas emergencies expected

HEMS pilot, consultant and paramedic on their way to an emergency mission

Air Ambulance Northern Ireland has issued an urgent Christmas appeal as the charity prepares for what could be one of its busiest festive seasons yet, expecting to be tasked over 60 times this December alone.

While families across Northern Ireland decorate their homes and make festive plans, the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) will continue operating every single day throughout the holidays — flying at speed to deliver hospital-level critical care at the scene of serious incidents.

For Dungannon man Tom Hadden, the service’s role is deeply personal. As he put up his Christmas decorations this week, he reflected on the life-changing road traffic collision that took place eight years ago — and the intervention that saved him.

“Without the Air Ambulance and early intervention from the medical team it could have been a very different ending for me.”

Tom Hadden with daughter Jill

Tom had been driving a bin lorry, the job he had done for 35 years, when a collision on 9 November 2017 left him with severe injuries. He remembers only his colleague Nigel calling for help in the minutes after the crash. Nigel also phoned Tom’s wife, Carol, who recalls hearing his screams of pain before rushing to the scene.

When the HEMS medical team arrived, Tom was suffering from a multiple crushing injury to his right leg. They provided sedation and advanced pain management to allow his extraction, before flying him to Craigavon Area Hospital where he was rushed into surgery.

Tom said:

“I’m deeply grateful to the Air Ambulance — the swift intervention from the medical team quite literally changed the course of my life. I also want to honour the dedication of every medical professional who has helped me along the way. Without their combined care, my story could have ended very differently.”

A Lifesaving Service That Depends on Public Support

Pilot Clive Stevens & HEMS paramedic James O’Callaghan

Air Ambulance NI, which works in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, responds to an average of two call-outs per day.

The aircraft, capable of reaching anywhere in Northern Ireland in around 25 minutes, brings a consultant and paramedic directly to the scene to deliver advanced pre-hospital emergency treatment — often meaning the difference between life and death.

Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Air Ambulance NI, said:

“This is a critical service that never stops. The Air Ambulance delivers advanced care directly to the patient, whether that’s at the roadside, rural area or the heart of Belfast City Centre.

“This advanced pre-hospital care saves the lives, brains, and limbs of people in our communities and families. But it’s not only the medical crew who save lives — it’s people like you who make it possible. Every donation, every fundraiser, every act of support keeps our helicopter in the air for everyone.”

To remain operational, the charity must raise £8,200 every single day, relying entirely on donations.

How the Public Can Help This December

The Air Ambulance being tasked to a critical call

Air Ambulance NI is calling on local communities, workplaces, schools, clubs and families to get involved this festive season. Suggested ways to support include:

1. Host a Festive Fundraiser

From Christmas Jumper Days and quiz nights to bake sales or carol singing, every pound raised helps keep the helicopter in the air.

2. Become a Member

Membership starts from just £2 per week and includes a gold pin badge, welcome pack, service updates and an invitation to the annual members gathering.

3. Buy Air Ambulance NI Christmas Gifts or Cards

Support the charity by shopping local: Christmas cards, travel mugs and other gifts are available online. Alternatively, send an e-card via the “Don’t Send Me A Card” platform and donate what you save.

4. Spread the Word

Share the charity’s message at your workplace, club, church or community group. Posters and leaflets are available to help raise awareness.

As Air Ambulance NI prepares for another demanding festive season, the charity is urging the public to rally together.

Your support this Christmas could help save someone’s life tomorrow — ensuring this essential service continues into 2026 and beyond.