Dare to Make a Difference: Air Ambulance NI’s Thrilling 2025 Event Line-Up

When life hangs in the balance, Air Ambulance Northern Ireland (AANI) is the lifeline we all hope will arrive. But did you know it takes £7,000 every single day to keep this vital service in the air?

To ensure their lifesaving missions can continue, AANI has launched an unmissable calendar of events for 2025 — and they’re calling on you to rise to the challenge.

This year’s headline event? A Firewalk like no other! On Friday 28th March, Stormont’s historic grounds will host 100 daring participants as they face a 500°C path of red-hot coals — barefoot.

It’s not just about bravery; it's about pushing limits, whether individually or with your corporate team. Sponsored by Scott’s Fuels, the event promises expert guidance from Scott Bell, a two-time Guinness World Record holder for firewalking.

After conquering the flames, participants will enjoy a well-earned celebratory meal in the prestigious Long Gallery of Parliament Buildings. Registration, which includes training and the post-event feast, costs just £60, with a suggested fundraising target of £150.

For adrenaline junkies, 2025 has even more thrills in store. Fancy abseiling 120ft down Belfast’s iconic Europa Hotel? Save the date: 2nd March.

Or take it a step further — quite literally — by leaping from 10,000ft in a tandem skydive. And for those who prefer keeping both feet firmly planted, the Moy Park Belfast City Marathon returns on Sunday 4th May, with options for walking, relays or tackling the full 26.2 miles.

The need for your support is urgent. Take it from Rebekah Jones from Bushmills, who owes her life to the Air Ambulance. One fateful summer morning, Rebekah’s car collided with a lorry near Saintfield. She suffered life-threatening injuries, including a cardiac arrest at the scene. Thanks to the rapid intervention of AANI’s Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) team, she survived and has since made a remarkable recovery.

“This year, we aim to raise £3 million to sustain the HEMS service,” explains Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising. “We’re calling on everyone to take part in our exciting events, from firewalks and skydives to dragon boat racing on the River Lagan and even a runway run at City of Derry Airport. Every penny raised keeps this service in the air and saves lives.”

With an average of two people a day depending on Air Ambulance NI, the charity’s work is vital. Whether it’s a road traffic collision, a farm accident, or a sudden medical emergency, the team can be at the patient’s side in minutes, providing life-saving care.

This is your chance to support their incredible work while pushing your own boundaries. Ready to get involved? Explore the full line-up of events and sign up today at airambulanceni.org/upcoming-events.