Our Impact News World Pilots’ Day 2026: Celebrating the skill behind every mission World Pilots’ Day (26 April) recognises the achievements of pilots worldwide. This year, we’re celebrating the expertise of our pilots and the vital role they play in delivering life-saving care across Dorset and Somerset. The pilots behind every mission Our pilots have extensive experience in low‑level operations and instrument flying and are carefully selected due to the challenging nature of air ambulance missions, which differ from routine non‑emergency flight services. Working closely with our clinical team, they are an essential part of every mission. From navigating challenging weather conditions to identifying safe landing sites, their skill ensures patient care remains the priority from take‑off to landing. View from the cockpit As Mario Carretta prepares to retire after a decade flying for DSAA, Kev Rutherford steps into the role of Unit Chief Pilot, bringing valuable experience and a strong appreciation of the foundations in place. As he settles into the role, Kev reflects on the standards that have shaped DSAA’s aviation operations, the team he is proud to support, and his vision for the future. Read the full story This World Pilots’ Day, we’re proud to recognise our pilots and air ambulance pilots across the UK. Thanks to their skills, our clinical team can be there for patients when every second counts. Manage Cookie Preferences