The four helicopters which operate as air ambulances in the Netherlands are called out an average 7,000 times a year, broadcaster Nos reports on Monday.

The first ambulance helicopter came into service 20 years ago and was attached to the VU teaching hospital in Amsterdam. Since then three other helicopters, in Rotterdam, Nijmegen and Groningen, have come into service.

According to surgeon Maartje Terra, the use of air ambulances has allowed medical teams to save three people per 100 journeys who would otherwise have died.

‘When there is a major accident, a surgeon and anesthetist are also on board, which means operations can be carried out on the spot,’ Terra told the broadcaster.

Compared with 20 years ago, medical teams are also better able to determine in advance if using a helicopter would be beneficial, Terra said.

The helicopters are owned by the ANWB motoring organisation.