Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

Bristow Ireland receives AOC from IAA

Bristow Ireland Limited has received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), marking a significant step towards the next generation of Coast Guard search and rescue aviation services in Ireland.

Image courtesy Bristow

"Gaining an AOC is a fundamental requirement to provide search and rescue in Ireland," said Neil Ebberson, Bristow Director Government Services. "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 in the country."

Advertisement
ODU RT

To gain AOC approval, Bristow Ireland was required to demonstrate that its AW189 aircraft will meet the Irish regulator's requirements for safe and compliant operations; submit detailed documentation to show that it can safely manage continued airworthiness; demonstrate that it can safely operate the AW189 to the required standards; and carry out a proving flight with the AW189 in Ireland.

Ebberson added: "With more than 75+ years of global experience to draw on, our Ireland team demonstrated that we have the experience, skills, and capabilities to operate to the standards the IAA demands for an Air Operator Certificate.

"The next phases of preparation for this critical new service are well in hand. TOEXCEL Ireland Limited - who are our fixed wing partners - are working in parallel for the award of a fixed-wing AOC, which will in turn enable us to deliver the capability enhancements. We are looking forward to reporting more progress as we move towards the initial transition to the new service in late 2024."

Bristow now has Air Operating Certificates covering 11 jurisdictions.
 

Advertisement
ODU RT

 

 

 

Advertisement
General Atomics LB
CAA warns of risks posed by incorrectly packed batteries

Aerospace Security

CAA warns of risks posed by incorrectly packed batteries

26 June 2026

Ahead of the big summer getaway where over 60 million people are expected to be flying, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is telling all passengers to 'pack right for a safe flight' by taking their batteries in the cabin with them.

University of Bristol study looks at reducing vertical air taxi noise

Aerospace

University of Bristol study looks at reducing vertical air taxi noise

25 June 2026

The University of Bristol has published a study in Applied Acoustics this week, showing how landing pad design could reduce noise for vertical air taxis.

Digital Twin solutions set to deliver on UK-wide industrial transformation

Aerospace Defence Security

Digital Twin solutions set to deliver on UK-wide industrial transformation

24 June 2026

Digital Catapult has concluded its inaugural Digital Twin Adoption Accelerator which showcased cutting-edge digital twin solutions developed by nine small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) from across the UK.

Intelligent Energy advances commercial hydrogen aviation

Aerospace

Intelligent Energy advances commercial hydrogen aviation

24 June 2026

Intelligent Energy has successfully completed H2GEAR (Hydrogen Electric Aircraft Propulsion System) - the UK’s flagship hydrogen aviation research programme - and is now applying the technology, expertise and infrastructure developed through the project to its next phase: commercial hydrogen fuel cell systems for zero-emission aircraft.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Gatwick Northern Runway Project cleared for take-off by High Court

Aerospace

Gatwick Northern Runway Project cleared for take-off by High Court

23 June 2026

The High Court in London has today upheld the UK Government’s decision to grant consent for Gatwick Airport’s Northern Runway Project.

Altus Group expands portfolio with SEHO partnership

Aerospace Defence

Altus Group expands portfolio with SEHO partnership

23 June 2026

Redditch based Altus Group has announced a new partnership with SEHO Systems GmbH, a German manufacturer specialising in wave and selective soldering systems, automation technology as well as THT inspection solutions.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner