The service is based at a hangar at Newquay Airport (EGHQ),[9] The helicopter can be airborne within two minutes of an emergency call and flies at 145 knots (167 mph; 269 km/h).

They are additionally trained as helicopter technical crewmembers, responsible for air to ground communications as well as navigation and assisting the pilot in flight as required.

As part of the contract the service then had two helicopters (registration G-CNWL and G-CIOS): one on operational readiness, the other on immediate standby in case of engineering requirements or non-availability of the primary aircraft.

This meant that during winter months the helicopters were available even during darker hours, thanks to the use of special night vision goggles mounted on the pilot's helmet.

As of 1 April 2020[update], Cornwall Air Ambulance now operates a single Leonardo AW169 helicopter (G-CRWL),[16] replacing both of the MD902 Explorer aircraft.

[16] Reasons for choosing the new aircraft include double the fuel range reducing the need to refuel between missions, a greater cruising speed and being able to carry more medical supplies.

[6] Members of the public finance the air ambulance by donations, various fund-raising events, purchase of weekly lottery tickets and legacies.