GCH Aviation has completed more than 50,000 air rescue and medical missions across Canterbury, the West Coast, Nelson and Marlborough.

The Christchurch aviation company said the milestone covered missions flown by its rescue helicopter operations and NZ Flying Doctor Service since 1985.

The rescue operation began after emergency services regularly called on GCH Aviation, then known as Garden City Helicopters, to assist with medical emergencies.

Company founder John Currie recognised the need for a dedicated service and established Canterbury Rescue Helicopter in 1985.

GCH Aviation founder and managing director John Currie said the operation had changed significantly during the following four decades.

“When we started the air rescue service in 1985, our goal was simple, to be there when people needed us most,” Currie said.

“To see the service grow over four decades and touch thousands of lives is something I am incredibly proud of.”

The company assisted with the response to the Cave Creek disaster in 1995, when 14 people died and four others were seriously injured on the West Coast.

The NZ Flying Doctor Service was introduced following the disaster, allowing critically ill patients to be transferred to major hospitals around the country.

Nelson Marlborough Air Rescue followed in 1996, extending the company’s rescue and medical transport operations across the middle and upper South Island.

Among Canterbury Rescue Helicopter’s earliest patients was pilot Allan Ruck, who was injured when his light aircraft encountered turbulence while approaching Forest Field and struck the ground.

GCH Aviation said Ruck was later told he would not have survived if he had been taken to hospital by road.

Currie said the milestone recognised the work of pilots, air crew officers, engineers, support staff and the organisations supporting the services.

“I’m proud of everyone who has been part of this journey,” he said.

“From our pilots, air crew officers, engineers and support staff to our partners, funders and supporters, it has always been a team effort.”

The services are funded by Health New Zealand and ACC, with additional community support provided through the Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust, Nelson Marlborough Rescue Trust and NZ Flying Doctors Trust.

“While the aircraft and technology have evolved significantly, our purpose remains unchanged, providing life saving assistance to our communities when it matters most,” Currie said.