Southern Vectis Backs Hampshire And Isle Of Wight Air Ambulance As Official Charity For 2026 And 2027

Southern Vectis has announced it will support Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance as its official charity partner for 2026 and 2027.

Over the next two years, the Island’s main bus operator will raise both funds and awareness to help keep the life-saving service running.

The air ambulance provides critical care across the Isle of Wight and the mainland, with specialist doctors and paramedics delivering hospital-level treatment at the scene of serious incidents.

The charity is funded entirely by donations.

Keith Wilson, Director of Income and Engagement at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, says the partnership will make a real difference.

He explained that the service has seen record demand in 2025, with helicopters currently able to reach anywhere on the Island within 20 minutes.

The charity is now working to reduce that response time through its new ‘Operation Airbase’ project, with £1.1 million still needed to complete the new purpose-built base.

Southern Vectis General Manager Richard Tyldsley said the charity is a vital part of the local community.

He added that the decision was made by staff, some of whom have personally benefited from the service, and that the company is proud to support such an important cause.

As part of the partnership, the charity will also be promoted on-board and on the back of one of Southern Vectis’ buses, helping to raise awareness among passengers across the Island.

For more information about Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, visit hiowaa.org.