Cornwall Air Ambulance has issued an urgent appeal as fuel costs rise

Cornwall Air Ambulance has issued an urgent appeal for support as rising jet fuel costs put increasing pressure on its lifesaving service.

The charity, which carries out around 1,000 missions each year, says it is facing an extra £10,000 a month in fuel costs. A single refuel at its base at Newquay Airport has risen from around £1,500 to £3,000.

Helicopters can use between 250 and 500 litres of fuel per hour depending on conditions, with the charity warning the rising costs are now significantly impacting its budget.

It says the financial strain is also being felt across other areas of the organisation, including an additional £1,000 a month for donation collections and shop deliveries.

Chief Executive Tim Bunting said: “Like many organisations and households, we are feeling the impact of rising fuel costs. Each mission we undertake is vital, but it comes at a growing financial cost. While we need additional financial support, we are also deeply aware that the people and communities who support us are facing the same pressures. We are incredibly grateful for their continued generosity during such challenging times.”

Despite the challenges, the charity says it remains committed to delivering critical care across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

It is now calling on the public, businesses and supporters to help bridge the funding gap and ensure missions can continue.

You can find out more about donating to the charity here.