McDermott Aviation, Australia's largest privately owned helicopter operator, has taken delivery of a factory-new Airbus H125, adding to a fleet the company has built up over four decades of specialist aviation work.
The H125 is powered by a Safran Arriel 2D engine and is widely regarded as one of the most versatile single-engine helicopters available, with an established record across utility, emergency response and specialist operations worldwide. The new aircraft will be based on the Sunshine Coast.
Founder and President John McDermott said the acquisition reflects the company's ongoing investment in aircraft, technology and capability. "Over the past four decades, we have built one of the world's most capable specialist helicopter fleets through strategic investment, engineering expertise and an unwavering focus on operational excellence," he said. "The addition of the Airbus H125 represents another step forward in that journey and provides a modern, highly versatile platform that complements our existing fleet."
McDermott said the H125's reliability, performance and adaptability made it a strong fit for the company's diverse operations, and that further investment in aircraft, people and infrastructure would continue as the business grows both in Australia and internationally.
The choice of the H125 was driven partly by its compatibility with the operator's existing fleet. It shares similarities with McDermott Aviation's AS355F1 helicopters, giving the company commonality in maintenance knowledge, tooling and parts support, which should help streamline the new aircraft's integration and support long-term efficiencies.
The acquisition is part of a broader strategy at McDermott Aviation to continue expanding and modernising its fleet in support of its operations across Australia and overseas.