The annual Santa Flights, which deliver toys to children in hospitals across B.C., will not be happening this year, according to BC Emergency Health Services.
Paramedic public information officer Brian Twaites told the Surrey Now-Leader that this is due to BCEHS’s contract ending with Helijet, who sponsored the flight.
“We’re deeply grateful to Helijet for sponsoring these flights over the past 20 years. We know many people across B.C. and beyond have fond memories of the Santa Flight that they will always carry with them. We thank everyone at Helijet for their generosity in creating this wonderful event and bringing happiness and holiday spirit to countless children and families. We’re also thankful to all the Infant Transport Team paramedics and the dedicated staff at BCEHS, Helijet and our hospital partners who made these flights possible year after year,” Twaites said.
Last year was Helijet International and BC Emergency Health Services’ (BCEHS) 20th year of “Santa Flights,” where they delivered toys to kids’ pediatric units in six hospitals in the Lower Mainland and on Vancouver Island.
A BCEHS spokesperson stated they currently do not have information about future plans.
“Although we’re sad to say goodbye to the Santa Flights, BCEHS paramedics, dispatch staff and support staff are proud to be part of many holiday gatherings and charitable activities in every part of B.C. this year. This includes a special visit from Santa this month to B.C. Children’s Hospital patients, organized in partnership between BCHES and BC Children’s Hospital.”
BCEHS entered a 10-year, $544.5 million contract with Ascent Helicopters in February 2023 to use as its sole provider of rotary-wing aircraft air ambulance services in B.C.
Carson Air is the main provider of fixed-wing air ambulance services in B.C.
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