The Midlands Air Ambulance Charity (MAAC) is hosting an open day at RAF Cosford in Shropshire on Saturday, June 14, 2025, offering families a rare opportunity to explore the charity's helicopter fleet and meet the crew.
Event Details and Activities
The open day runs from 10am to 4pm at the charity's airbase at RAF Cosford, which is located near Wolverhampton. Visitors will be able to tour the charity's three helicopters, including the Airbus H145 and the H135, and see the aircraft up close. The event also features emergency vehicle displays, a children's zone with activities, a charity shop, and a raffle.
According to the charity, the event is free to attend, but parking costs £5 per vehicle, with all proceeds going directly to the charity. The charity's fundraising team will be on hand to discuss how people can support the service, including through regular donations, legacies, or volunteering.
Charity's Mission and Impact
The Midlands Air Ambulance Charity provides emergency medical services across the Midlands region, covering a population of more than 5 million people. The charity operates three helicopters from its bases at RAF Cosford, Strensham, and Tatenhill, responding to around 3,000 missions each year.
Each mission costs approximately £2,500, and the charity relies entirely on donations to fund its operations. The open day aims to raise awareness of the charity's work and encourage public support. The charity's chief executive, Emma Wood, said: "We are delighted to invite the public to our open day at RAF Cosford. It's a fantastic opportunity for families to see our helicopters up close, meet our dedicated crew, and learn more about the life-saving work we do across the Midlands."
Practical Information for Visitors
Visitors are advised to book tickets in advance through the charity's website, as spaces are limited. The event is suitable for all ages, and there will be catering available on site. The charity also encourages attendees to bring cash for the raffle and charity shop, as card payments may not be available at all stalls.
The open day is part of the charity's ongoing efforts to engage with the communities it serves and to highlight the importance of its work. The charity's airbase at RAF Cosford is also home to the charity's training facilities, where crew members undergo regular training to maintain their skills.
For those unable to attend, the charity offers virtual tours and a range of online resources to learn about its work. The open day is expected to draw hundreds of visitors, providing a valuable opportunity for the charity to connect with the public and raise funds for its life-saving missions.
