Bristow Ireland completes Coast Guard helicopter transition at Waterford Airport

Bristow Ireland has completed the transition of Coast Guard helicopter operations at Waterford Airport, replacing the Sikorsky S-92 fleet with new-generation AW189 helicopters, according to the Irish Independent.

Waterford becomes the fourth and final base to complete the nationwide changeover. Minister Sean Canney welcomed the final phase of the national transition.

The Sikorsky S-92 Search and Rescue helicopter R117 left the airport for the final time on 3 February, ending 13 years of service. At 00:01 on 1 February, the Sikorsky S-92A EI-ICU was officially stood down, with EI-IRO, one of the new-generation AW189 helicopters, officially taking over operations.

CHC Ireland has operated from Waterford Airport since 2002, initially with the Sikorsky S-61N and from 2013 onwards the Sikorsky S-92A. The Irish Coast Guard stated the milestone completes the move from the long-serving Sikorsky S-92 fleet to a new generation of AW189 helicopters and a 24-hour fixed-wing service.

The new helicopters, whilst having similar range and top speed to the Sikorsky S-92s, are lighter, more modern, and known to be more efficient and adaptable.

Former independent TD Matt Shanahan paid tribute to the Waterford-based helicopter, noting it "has been in service in Waterford since 2013 and in that time as well as affecting numerous rescues and recoveries on land and at sea, has also transported many cardiac and transplant patients across Ireland and the UK."

Shanahan stated, "The R117 call sign has now transferred to a new helicopter platform, the Augusta Westland/Leonardo AW189 officially now in service at Waterford. This aircraft configuration has yet to prove she is an equally capable and formidable replacement to the S92 – we wish her crews every success as they begin activities in this new service plan."

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