Devon Air Ambulance has warned that soaring fuel prices are placing significant new pressure on its lifesaving service, while reassuring the public that it remains fully operational and committed to reaching patients in need.
Aviation fuel costs have more than doubled in recent months, creating a substantial financial strain for the charity, which relies entirely on public donations. Chief Executive Greg Allen said that despite these unprecedented increases, helicopters and critical care teams continue to respond as normal across Devon.
Aviation fuel prices have more than doubled in recent months, increasing from around 74p per litre in early March to the current price of around £1.60 per litre. Based on these prices the charity estimates its annual aviation fuel costs could rise from around £177,000 in 2025 to approximately £384,000 this year – an increase of £210,000 in a year.
Despite this severe economic pressure, which comes at a time when aircraft maintenance costs have also risen, Greg Allen has pledged to protect frontline services.
“We plan carefully for scenarios like this and hold reserves to protect our ability to respond, so despite the huge pressures from the cost of living and the hike in aviation fuel, we’re still able to run our service as normal.
“Anyone at any time might need our service,” he said. “Accidents and emergencies can’t be planned for, and that’s why we’re needed – to get critical care to patients at the scene as quickly as possible, maximising their life chances.”
The charity maintains on-site fuel reserves at both its Exeter and North Devon airbases, providing operational resilience for an extended period if supply were disrupted. However, it acknowledges that rising costs are presenting a significant and ongoing challenge.
“Unlike commercial operators, we can’t pass these costs on,” said Mr Allen. “Every extra pound spent on fuel is a pound that has to be found through donations.”
Like most air ambulance charities across the UK, Devon Air Ambulance relies entirely on public support to fund its operations, with no direct government funding for daily services. And because it doesn’t receive tax relief on aviation fuel the charity is fully exposed to price fluctuations.
Mr Allen said the air ambulance is continuing to monitor fuel supply and pricing closely and is developing contingency plans where needed, working with partners to ensure continued resilience.
“The situation we’re in reflects wider pressures facing the sector, as many organisations navigate rising costs alongside a challenging fundraising environment,” he said.
“These rising costs are a real and ongoing challenge for us, at a time when many charities are facing increasing pressure. But our focus remains unchanged – to be there for anyone who needs us, whenever and wherever that may be.
We rely entirely on the generosity of the public to keep our service flying, and that support has never been more important.” .