Carlisle Lake District Airport is now a landing base for the HM Coastguard helicopter. 

This change comes after a policy change preventing landings at Cumberland Infirmary due to a risk assessment by Bristow, who operates the helicopters.

The assessment revealed 'too much downdraught' was created by the helicopters for the current site.

Patients will now be transferred to the Carlisle hospital via ambulance. 

A North Cumbria Integrated Care (NCIC) Trust spokesperson confirmed the helipad at the Cumberland Infirmary is still 'very much in operation and continues to be available for air ambulances'. 

"The (HM Coastguard) helicopters will now arrive at the airport and all patients arriving at the airport will have a medical escort already who are able to provide lifesaving treatment," they said. 

A spokesperson from Carlisle Lake District Airport said: "We were delighted to welcome the HM Coastguard Helicopter back to Carlisle Airport last week.

"Following a recent policy change, the helicopter can no longer land directly at Cumberland Infirmary.

"Moving forward, patients will arrive at the airport and be transferred to the Carlisle hospital by ambulance.

"We’re proud to support this essential service, which plays a vital role in the safety and well-being of our community," they said.