Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance open new Southampton airbase
The charity has completed its relocation from Thruxton, Andover to the new headquarters at Southampton Airport
Last updated 9th Jun 2026
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance has officially opened its new airbase at Southampton Airport.
The move across from Thruxton, Andover, comes after research found around 70% of the service's emergencies occurred in the south of the region, nearer the more densely populated cities.
The purchase of the building was made from the charity’s reserves, with £3.6 million raised from more than 13,000 donors to convert the site into a purpose-built airbase which was unveiled on Tuesday.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance CEO, Richard Corbett, said: “This is a monumental occasion for our charity.
"The support we have received from members of the public, businesses, organisations, community groups, trusts and foundations has been astonishing.
“I am incredibly grateful to each supporter, volunteer, crew member and colleague for their dedication in orchestrating this move.
"It has been a tremendous effort while also focusing on our primary mission of bringing exceptional critical care to people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
"I would also like to thank everyone at Thruxton Motorsport Circuit, and the surrounding towns and villages, for accommodating us for the past 19 years.
“It is now our turn to repay the faith that has been placed in us and continue developing as an organisation in our new home, saving and changing lives for many years to come.”
It costs £17,750 a day to maintain the life-saving service, with each mission costing the charity approximately £3,500.
The charity’s Critical Care Teams are called out to an average of seven incidents every day, including cardiac arrests, road traffic collisions, falls and assaults.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Medical Lead, Dr Chris Hill, said: “This airbase is going to unlock so much potential for the future of our service and our patients.
"We have a constant drive to evolve and improve and we’re always searching for the next advantage that could make a difference to our patients.
"I am convinced that the opening of this airbase is going to provide just that.
"Thank you to everyone who has played their part.”
Liz Jarvis MP visited the opening today.
She said: “This is a huge day for the local community here in Eastleigh who have supported this project from the beginning.
"It’s absolutely brilliant that the Air Ambulance will now be making its home here.
“The trustees have done an amazing job raising the funds for what is a hugely significant and vital project, which will help save lives and transport people to safety.
“I’m incredibly proud to have the air ambulance base in Eastleigh at last.”