Coast Guard launches new service including state-of-the-art helicopter for Waterford
The Irish Coast Guard launched its new aviation service on August 21. Photo: Joe Evans
Thursday, August 21, saw the official launch of the Coast Guard's new aviation service, which will enhance nationwide Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, including Waterford-based Rescue 117.
The new service is operated by Bristow Ireland as part of a 10-year contract, worth €670 million. The contract includes six purpose-built AW189 helicopters based at Waterford, Sligo, Dublin and Shannon.
The Coast Guard will also be utilising a 24-hour fixed-wing service provided by two Beechcraft B200 King Air aircraft, which will be based at Shannon. The fleet is expected to work as an integrated aviation service to assist the Coast Guard in its operations.
Minister of State Sean Canney, with special responsibility for the Irish Coast Guard, was present at the official launch.
"This is a pivotal moment for Ireland’s maritime safety and environmental stewardship,” said Minister Canney.
"The Coast Guard is one of the four principal emergency services, and this expanded helicopter fleet, and the introduction of fixed-wing operations means the organisation is better equipped than ever to deliver enhanced inland, coastal and offshore search and rescue services, as well as the provision of 24/7 aeromedical support to HSE and our offshore island communities."
Minister Canney added: "For the first time, the Coast Guard has a dedicated fixed wing aircraft, which will enable it meet international obligations in proactive maritime environmental monitoring and pollution investigation, enhancing our overall awareness of any threats to our maritime environment, covering an area of 132,000 square miles."
According to the Department of Transport: "In July 2025, the Dublin-based service commenced operations from Weston Airport, which signified the end of 27 years of Coast Guard helicopter services operating out of Dublin Airport.
"The other two bases in Waterford and Sligo will transition over the coming months."
There were concerns among Coast Guard staff when the changeover occurred from former provider CHC Ireland to Bristow Ireland.
In March 2025, the Department of Transport stated the transition from the existing provider CHC Ireland to Bristow Helicopters was "a complex process that requires close co-operation by both commercial operators”, while the government body was maintaining the “overarching priority” of a “safe and effective transition without interruption to services”.
As part of this process, and with the safety of crew, citizens and mariners as the overarching priority, the Department said it might recognise the need to revise transition dates.
"Where this happens, the Department will do so without hesitation and with the expected full cooperation of both contractors,” it said at the time.
