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09/05/2012
Air Ambulances Cleared To Fly
Air ambulances have been cleared to fly again from Wednesday, after half of the UK's fleet of 32 helicopters were grounded over safety fears.
The main operator, Bond Air Services, had withdrawn all 22 of its Eurocopter EC 135 helicopters - including 16 air ambulances - over concerns about possible cracks in the rotor hub.
The model is used by air ambulance services in Scotland, Wales, north-west England, Midlands and other counties.
Earlier Bond said manufacturer Eurocopter had advised pre and post-flight checks after the fault was discovered but that Bond had decided to halt flights as a precaution on safety grounds.
Bond said that it had been working with Eurocopter engineers over the past 34 hours to determine if the fleet could be flown safely.
A spokesman said Eurocopter had "given an unequivocal guarantee" that the EC 135 was safe to fly and that inspections will be carried out before each flight.
Flights are set to resume at 07:00 BST.
(H)
The main operator, Bond Air Services, had withdrawn all 22 of its Eurocopter EC 135 helicopters - including 16 air ambulances - over concerns about possible cracks in the rotor hub.
The model is used by air ambulance services in Scotland, Wales, north-west England, Midlands and other counties.
Earlier Bond said manufacturer Eurocopter had advised pre and post-flight checks after the fault was discovered but that Bond had decided to halt flights as a precaution on safety grounds.
Bond said that it had been working with Eurocopter engineers over the past 34 hours to determine if the fleet could be flown safely.
A spokesman said Eurocopter had "given an unequivocal guarantee" that the EC 135 was safe to fly and that inspections will be carried out before each flight.
Flights are set to resume at 07:00 BST.
(H)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
