Yorkshire Air Ambulance Confirms Plans for Dedicated New Base

Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA) has confirmed its plans to establish a purpose-built facility for its operations. The charity stated that its Northern Air Support Unit would be situated on the outskirts of Skipton on Swale, approximately 3.5 miles (5.6km) from its current location at RAF Topcliffe. The organization indicated that this new base would contribute to advancing its capabilities and ensuring its crews can operate at the highest possible level in the future. Mike Harrop, Chairman of the service, described this as an “important step in securing the future” of the vital lifesaving service. YAA operates a fleet of advanced Airbus H145 helicopters, providing service to a population of five million people across four million acres. The charity’s operating costs are entirely funded by public donations. Having operated as a tenant at RAF Topcliffe for over a decade, YAA noted that the acquisition of land for its proposed new base would provide stability for its work. It further explained that the facility in Skipton on Swale would enable the YAA’s critical care team to continue delivering a rapid response to patients within 20 minutes, a timeframe it considers vital for saving lives. Mr. Harrop stated: “While this project is still in its early stages, it represents our commitment to providing the very best resources for our crews and patients across Yorkshire.” He added that this endeavor would not have been possible without the “ongoing support” of their donors. Although a planning application has not yet been submitted, YAA confirmed that it has engaged with both the parish council in Skipton on Swale and North Yorkshire Council.