- The Irish Coast Guard has launched aviation operations at Waterford Airport.
- Six AW189 helicopters have operated from bases including Waterford.
- A 24-hour fixed wing service with King Air aircraft has started from Shannon.
- A training exercise has involved the Tramore Coast Guard Unit.
- Minister Sean Canney has launched the enhanced search and rescue capability.
The Irish Coast Guard has launched aviation operations at Waterford Airport on 16 April 2026. Minister of State Sean Canney has officiated the event at the SAR base in Ballygarran. Bristow Ireland has operated the service under a 10-year contract with six AW189 helicopters based at Waterford, Sligo, Dublin and Shannon.
The launch has introduced a 24-hour fixed wing aircraft service using two King Air aircraft based at Shannon for the first time. A search and rescue training exercise has demonstrated integration between the Tramore Coast Guard Unit and an AW189 helicopter. The fixed wing aircraft has performed a fly-by during the event.
The development has enhanced search and rescue capabilities in the south east region. The Minister has taken questions from media after the official proceedings. The aviation base has strengthened the Coast Guard’s national response network.
Minister Sean Canney shared “This marks a significant enhancement to the Coast Guard’s Search and Rescue capabilities in the area.”
