Emergency search and rescue crews carrying out 'familiarisation flights' around the isles in new helicopters

Bristow Helicopters, working for HM Coastguard, is using “familiarisation flights” this week to prepare a new fleet of Leonardo AW189 helicopters for service around Scotland. Crews are operating the aircraft from locations including Sumburgh, ahead of an upcoming launch. The twin‑engine, multi-mission AW189 has a maximum cruising speed of more than 180 mph and is set to replace the larger Sikorsky S‑92A that has served the islands for years. It includes a search camera, night vision goggle certification and rescue hoists. Extended-range fuel tanks beneath the cabin floor can double fuel capacity without reducing landing capability on rough ground.