Strengthening EHAAT’s Aviation Team as We Build Towards Our Own AOC

Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) has taken a major step forward in strengthening its aviation operations by applying for its own Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) – a move that enhances our independence, resilience and commitment to delivering world-class pre-hospital emergency care.

As part of this journey, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Andy Moorhouse as our new Chief Pilot and Nominated Person for Flight Operations, and Terry Boddy as Chief Training Captain and Nominated Person for Crew Training. Both roles are vital in building the structure required to deliver an AOC, and we’re proud to have such high-calibre aviation professionals on board.

Andy Moorhouse and Terry Boddy

The AOC is an official approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) that allows EHAAT to operate its own helicopters directly, giving us greater control over our flight operations, including recruitment and training of pilots. Most importantly, it reduces the risk of service disruption, helping ensure our critical care teams can continue to be there for patients in need every day.

Our Journey to an AOC

The AOC process is being led by Bill Long, EHAAT’s Aviation Director, and a core team of aviation specialists, who are working in close collaboration with our clinical, and operations teams.

Bill Long

EHAAT made the decision to pursue its own AOC several years ago, recognising the long-term benefits of having direct control over its aviation operations. The decision became more urgent when our previous operator, Specialist Aviation Services (SAS), went into receivership in 2023.

Thanks to the swift intervention of GAMA Aviation, our service continued almost seamlessly, with no interruption to our life-saving missions. We are incredibly grateful to the team at GAMA, who continue to support our operation and understand the direction we are taking.

“We wish both Andy and Terry all the best in their important new roles as EHAAT builds the nominated post holder positions for their AOC application. We remain fully committed to supporting the charity’s lifesaving mission as we transition the operation of the service to EHAAT later this year.” – Mark Smith, Managing Director, Gama Aviation Special Mission

Andy joined EHAAT in 2023, having previously flown with East Anglia Air Ambulance and brought with him a wealth of experience as a decorated pilot, instructor and examiner. “I was delighted and extremely proud to be trusted with the Chief Pilot role,” said Andy. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build a new team and a healthy culture based on shared responsibility and mutual respect.”

Looking Ahead

EHAAT is now working closely with the UK CAA, aiming to achieve full certification at the end of the year. The process involves extensive oversight, rigorous compliance checks, and the development of robust operational and safety systems.

Terry, a highly experienced pilot and instructor, will take on a vital leadership role in developing and maintaining pilot training and safety standards. Terry says, “I see the opportunity of being part of a team which is developing an AOC as being one that’s exciting and industry leading.”

This is a significant moment in EHAAT’s history. Having our own AOC will ensure greater flexibility, security, and resilience in delivering our critical care from the air, for the benefit of our patients and the communities we serve.

We look forward to sharing more as our aviation journey continues.

Read our Q&A with Chief Pilot Andy Moorhouse to learn more about his story and what the AOC means for EHAAT

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