Devon is at the heart of everything we do
During the summer holidays, residents and visitors alike are inspired to explore our stunning coastline, rolling countryside, and charming towns.
But with greater road traffic and increased outdoor activity, the summer months also bring a sharp rise in missions.
With the influx of visitors and the increase in rural and sports activity, costs also increase during that period by nearly half a million pounds so that our highly-skilled crew can continue to deliver critical care at the scene.
Last year I was part of the crew who were called to help 4-year-old Zalan. While enjoying a day out with his family Zalan was kicked in the face by a horse at Haytor Rocks on Dartmoor. A sudden, serious illness or injury like Zalan’s can happen to anyone at any time, and thankfully, we are always ready to respond.
Alex, Advanced Prehospital Paramedic at Devon Air Ambulance
Together we can save more lives this summer
Your gift will help us to:
- respond swiftly to emergencies, wherever they might occur
- keep our helicopters fully equipped with the latest technology
- support our highly-trained crew who work tirelessly to save lives
Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to funding the next mission. A gift of £30 today could help cover fuel costs, while a larger donation could contribute to the maintenance of our helicopters and cars, ensuring they remain ready to respond.
You can make a difference
Operating this essential service comes at a cost. Each mission costs an average of £4,500. With the surge in demand during the summer, a donation of £30 will make a vital difference.
As a charity, we receive no direct government funding. We rely entirely on donations from local communities and kind-hearted individuals like you. Thank you for your support.
Your questions about our service
Devon Air Ambulance is a life-saving emergency medical service that provides rapid response to critical incidents across Devon. We operate two helicopters and a fleet of critical care cars to reach patients quickly, especially in remote or hard-to-access areas.
Devon Air Ambulance is an independent charity. We are not funded by the NHS or government and we rely entirely on donations, fundraising, and community support to operate.
Our air ambulance crew is dispatched to serious emergencies where patients need urgent specialist care, such as road traffic collisions, medical incidents, or incidents in rural or hard-to-reach locations.
Yes, Devon Air Ambulance operates after dark. Our aircraft and crew are equipped for night flying, helping to deliver critical care when and where it’s needed most. We have established a network of community landing sites across the country to assist with access for our crew in villages in towns.
Each mission costs thousands of pounds, and the charity must raise millions every year to keep its helicopters and critical care cars operational. Patients are never charged for the service. Visit our Annual Report for more information.
Devon Air Ambulance employs highly trained pilots, paramedics, and doctors who are paid professionals, as well as a workforce that excels in their roles from across fundraising through to the essential support staff and to the retail team. Our charity also benefits from a dedicated team of over 600 volunteers who each support our work in the community.
You can support the charity by making a donation, joining the lottery, fundraising, or volunteering. Every contribution helps save lives in Devon, every day of the year.
Devon Air Ambulance operates from airbases in Exeter and Eaglescott, with critical care cars extending coverage across the county. Learn more about our missions.