Devon air ambulance warns fuel prices are straining lifesaving work
The charity stresses it remains operational despite financial pressures
Last updated 14th May 2026
The Devon Air Ambulance charity has raised concerns about the rising aviation fuel prices, which have surged significantly and are posing economic challenges to its operations.
Aviation fuel costs, which were around 74p per litre in early March, now stand at approximately £1.60 per litre, more than doubling within a few months.
The charity says this has led to an estimated increase of £210,000 in its annual fuel expenses.
Despite these financial hurdles, Chief Executive Greg Allen reassures the public that the air ambulance service remains fully operational.
He emphasised that the charity has reserves in place to mitigate such scenarios and remains dedicated to responding to emergencies across Devon, and said: "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.
“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's ability to function without governmental funding and tax relief on aviation fuel highlights its reliance on public donations.
Allen affirmed: “We can’t pass these costs on like commercial operators; every extra pound spent on fuel has to be sourced through donations.”
The charity is maintaining its operational resilience by holding on-site fuel reserves across its airbases in Exeter and North Devon.
Allen noted that the organisation is collaborating with partners and creating contingency plans to uphold service continuity amidst rising costs.
As the charity persists through challenging fiscal times, it underscores the critical importance of public support to maintain its lifesaving services.
Allen concluded, stating that the financial pressure impacts the wider sector but the focus remains on delivering emergency care promptly, relying entirely on donations to keep the service running.