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Air Ambulance NI (AANI) call-outs peaked in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council last year.
The statistic was confirmed to the local democracy service by the ANNI communication office, ahead of a media release on call-out figures across Northern Ireland.
The AANI works in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service who provide the medical crew, medicines, and equipment and relies on £2m annual charity funding.
Slieve Croob councillor Alan Lewis (DUP) recently delivered a cheque from his annual Santa Visit to the health charity, where he discussed the call out statistics with AANI officials.
He said: “Newry Mourne and Down is the most visited district by Air Ambulance across Northern Ireland.
“I now intend to submit a motion to council highlighting this, the work of the charity, calling for greater awareness and fundraising efforts.
“On average the crew responds to two calls a day, sometimes only landing to refuel.
“Their dedication, commitment and energy of purpose is remarkable, it was humbling to have been able to visit, tour and communicate with personnel at the base.
“I was delighted to have been able to visit the base of the Air Ambulance at The Maze, Lisburn and make our Santa Visit donation (£223.56) on behalf of the residents of Slieve Croob.
“I discussed with Amy Henshaw (regional fundraising coordinator) how we could better help, highlight the work and services of AANI and increase our fundraising for this coming year.
“I believe it is important that I use my position to aid and raise awareness of this wonderful life saving service, which has been particularly active within my Slieve Croob DEA.
“Hearing that Newry Mourne and Down is the most frequently visited area for the Air Ambulance, this reinforces the importance of supporting the charity through fundraising and awareness, a safeguard for rural communities, saving lives by increasing capabilities and response time.”
