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
FIA2026 animated banner
NPAS supports South Wales Police op targeting illegal bikes

Aerospace Security

NPAS supports South Wales Police op targeting illegal bikes

1 May 2026

The National Police Air Service (NPAS) supported South Wales Police during a targeted operation in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot to tackle the illegal and anti‑social use of electric bikes and motorbikes.

Made Smarter launches AI toolkit

Aerospace Defence Security Space

Made Smarter launches AI toolkit

1 May 2026

A new guide has been published by Made Smarter to help manufacturers cut through the noise around artificial intelligence (AI) and focus on what actually works on the factory floor.

Hexagon completes acquisition of Inertial Sense

Aerospace Defence Security

Hexagon completes acquisition of Inertial Sense

1 May 2026

Hexagon announced yesterday the successful completion of the acquisition of Inertial Sense, strengthening its assured positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) portfolio with tactical-grade GNSS+INS technology.

Beldam Crossley awarded King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade

Aerospace Defence

Beldam Crossley awarded King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade

1 May 2026

Bolton based Beldam Crossley Limited has been honoured with a King’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade, recognising the company’s outstanding short-term growth in overseas sales.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Skills Academy to open at Airbus Filton

Aerospace

Skills Academy to open at Airbus Filton

1 May 2026

Weston College and University Centre Weston (UCW) have announced plans for an exciting new Skills Academy in the aerospace & Defence space, located at Airbus Filton, Bristol.

Rolls-Royce wins LATAM Airlines Trent 1000 XE order

Aerospace

Rolls-Royce wins LATAM Airlines Trent 1000 XE order

30 April 2026

Rolls-Royce has been selected by LATAM Airlines to power three Boeing 787 Dreamliners with Trent 1000 XE engines.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner