Air ambulance confirms plans for new South West base

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) has confirmed plans to develop a new long-term operational base at Leonardo UK’s site in Yeovil, as the charity looks to strengthen its ability to meet rising demand for life-saving care across the region.

The charity has signed a 35-year lease for the site, which will be provided rent-free by Leonardo. DSAA said the move is designed to secure a sustainable, future-proof home that supports rapid deployment, clinical excellence and staff wellbeing.

Operational analysis found Yeovil offers strong helicopter coverage across Dorset and Somerset, while access to major roads will also benefit the charity’s rapid response vehicles. The proposed base would include purpose-built facilities for patient interaction, training, operational coordination and community engagement.

Development of the new base will be subject to further stages, including a public consultation planned for mid-2026, followed by planning permission and fundraising. DSAA will continue operating from Henstridge Airfield in the meantime.

The announcement comes alongside progress on DSAA’s plans to introduce a second helicopter to increase capacity and reach more patients. The aircraft has completed test flights and will shortly be flown to Gloucestershire Airport, where it will be customised for Helicopter Emergency Medical Service operations. It is expected to become operational in summer 2026.

DSAA’s missions by air and road have increased more than threefold over the past decade. The charity has committed £30m from its reserves to support the new base, the purchase and fit-out of a second helicopter, and wider modernisation projects.

Chief executive Charles Hackett said the charity remained focused on ensuring every patient across Dorset and Somerset can access critical care when it is needed most, while working transparently with communities and stakeholders as plans progress.

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