Air Ambulance Week 2026 takes place across the UK from 7–13 September and is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the vital, life-saving work of air ambulance charities.

Organised by Air Ambulances UK, the national charity supporting the work of the UK’s air ambulance charities, this campaign highlights the vital role air ambulance crews play in bringing emergency hospital care directly to patients at the scene.

The theme for this year is ‘Every Mission Starts With You’, in recognition of the amazing supporters who make every mission possible. Whether that’s donating, fundraising, or simply helping spread the word, they are a critical part of every mission.

In support of the week, GNAAS have arranged for monuments, buildings and bridges in the areas that they operate in to be lit up green to raise awareness of the vital work they have carried out for more than 24 years.

Landmarks being illuminated in the North East include Penshaw Monument, Gateshead Millenium Bridge, St Mary’s Lighthouse, Redcar Beacon, Civic Green Newcastle, Auckland Castle and Auckland Tower.

In Barnard Castle, the fortress, Witham Hall, Market Cross, Barnard Castle Memorial Tree and Methodist Church Barnard Castle.

In Darlington the clock tower, Town Hall, the Hippodrome and library on Crown St.

In Middlesbrough the Municipal Building, Bottle of Notes, St Hilda Bell Structure, Dorman Museum, A66 Underpass, Central Library, Middlesbrough Town Hall and clock, and the Auxiliary.

In Cumbria currently the Sir John Barrow Monument, Carlisle Historic Quarter, Barrow in Furness Town Hall, Carlisle Civic Centre, and Whitehaven Beacon will be illuminated green.

On the Isle of Man the Ramsey Bridge, Tower of Refuge, Douglas city centre, promenade and city hall will be lit up green.

In addition to this, all of the Tesco supermarkets on the Isle of Man will be fundraising in aid of GNAAS during Air Ambulance Week and other businesses have been encouraged to do the same.

Joe Garcia MBE, CEO at GNAAS, said: “Seeing so many iconic buildings and landmarks across our region turn green for Air Ambulance Week will be a fantastic and very visible show of support for our crews and the life-saving service they provide every day.

“Each illumination helps shine a light on the extraordinary generosity of the communities that keep our helicopters flying and our critical care teams responding to people when they need us most.

“We hope that seeing the region turn green will encourage people to get involved in whatever way they can; whether that’s taking on a challenge, organising a fundraiser, making a donation or simply helping us spread the word.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has made these illuminations possible, and we’re looking forward to seeing the North come together in green in support of its local air ambulance service.”