The Great North Air Ambulance Service has launched a new fundraising campaign inviting supporters to have their names quite literally written into the charity’s future.
Through the Written in the Sky initiative, anyone donating £100 or more can have their name, or the name of someone special, displayed on the underside of one of GNAAS’s new helicopters.
Supporters will also receive a thank‑you letter and certificate, with the option to buy a limited‑edition commemorative coin for £10.
Helicopter Fleet
The campaign forms a major part of Operation SOS, GNAAS’s most ambitious appeal yet, which aims to raise £2.5 million to secure the deposit for a vital third Airbus H145 D2 helicopter.
The charity currently operates two Dauphin aircraft, but rising maintenance costs, parts shortages and increased downtime have made it harder to keep the service fully operational.
Returning to a three helicopter fleet would ensure the critical care team can continue responding by air even when one aircraft is undergoing maintenance.
Chief pilot Phil Lambert warned that operating with only two helicopters leaves the service “on a knife‑edge”.
Fundraising
So far, GNAAS has raised 26% of its target, with CEO Joe Garcia MBE calling the early support “an incredible achievement”.
Nearly £2 million still needs to be raised before the end of 2026.
Island residents, businesses and community groups are encouraged to get involved and help secure the future of this life‑saving service, which regularly supports patients across the North of England and has assisted Isle of Man residents in emergencies.
Full details and naming guidelines can be found here.
