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16 Dec 2025
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16 Dec 2025
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Courtesy of Department of Transport
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The Irish Coast Guard has published a first look of its next generation aircraft, to be provided under the new aviation services contract. The new 10-year contract was awarded to Bristow Ireland Limited (BIL) by the Department of Transport in August 2023 and provides for year-round, day and night Search and Rescue helicopter services.
This service will be delivered through a fleet of six search and rescue (SAR) configured AW189 helicopters located in Shannon, Sligo, Dublin and Waterford.
For the first time, the Irish Coast Guard will also have dedicated Fixed Wing service provided by 2EXCEL Ireland (2EI) located at Shannon Airport. The Fixed Wing capability will enhance the Coast Guard’s capacity to coordinate SAR missions.
Speaking of the new contract, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Jack Chambers said: “The new service will be introduced gradually over a phased basis.
“The release of this livery for the new specialist aircraft, which will replace the existing fleet, marks another important step on the transition of our Coast Guard to the new service provision.”
Earlier this month, Bristow was awarded an Air Operators Certificate (AOC) by the IAA - a significant step in the transition to the new contract.
It was awarded after the successful completion of a lengthy application and assessment process run by the IAA, and ensures the highest standards of professionalism and safety are met by the operator of the Coast Guard Aviation Service.
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