Flying paramedics

UK paramedics could be taking off in this James Bond style jet suit in order to reach patients in remote locations.

Working with Gravity Industries, the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) conducted tests in the rugged landscape of northern England's Lake District. When there's no access to helicopters, paramedics can face up to an hour's journey before reaching a casualty in this difficult terrain.

Andy Mawson paramedic and director of GNAAS, reflects on the need for speed in the Lake District.

Mawson: "You know, for our paramedics to get on the scene within a matter of minutes, and recognise that can mean the difference between life and death."

The trial was flown by the suit's inventor, Richard Browning of Gravity industries, who reached a simulated casualty site from the bottom of the valley in 90 seconds. Covering this distance on foot would have taken 25 minutes.

Andy Mawson feels the suit could be a game changer for paramedics.

Mawson: "So, there is, you know, there's no real reason why in the fullness of time, that we won't see GNAAS paramedics using that technology, saving lives and easing suffering."

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