As the fire season gets underway in Greece, six McDermott Aviation B214 ST aircraft have been deployed from Australia to Europe as part of the aerial firefighting fleet that will protect the islands as they face another season underpinned by hot, dry conditions.

These aircraft will reinforce the existing presence of six McDermott Aviation helicopters already stationed in Greece, with an additional three en route from the company's United States operations. This will bring the total fleet supporting Greece's aerial firefighting efforts this season to 15. The fire season in Greece officially began on 1 May and ends on October 31, and Australian-owned McDermott Aviation's fleet will remain there for the next five months.

“This is our fifth year fighting fires in Greece,” says John McDermott, founder and president of McDermott Aviation, which specialises in natural disaster response. “Last year we performed in excess of 4,000 hours across 14 helicopters, dropping over 25,000 loads onto its wildfires. That's roughly 75,000,000 litres of water dropped.

“During that time, we deployed specially trained Australian and international personnel, both on the ground and in the air, to support Greece's firefighting operations. Currently, approximately 200 individuals are directly involved in McDermott Aviation's operations in Greece, including local Greek coordinators, liaison officers and company personnel. At any given time, around 50 McDermott Aviation staff are stationed in Greece on a rotational basis.”

Last year, McDermott Aviation was among the fleet that helped fight the raging fires that tore through Athens, forcing thousands of locals to evacuate. It also actively fought fires near Marathonas Lake and Penteli Mountain, protecting lives and infrastructure.

In 2023, just before its aircraft were due to return to Australia, the versatility and capabilities of the B214 ST were further highlighted when the fleet was urgently deployed to respond to a deadly weather system. Torrential rainfall had caused widespread flooding and mudslides across Volos, Karditsa and Larissa, prompting critical rescue operations to assist those trapped or displaced by the disaster.

“When the call came in, we didn't hesitate and sent seven of our fleet in to help,” McDermott continues. “We had the resources, and in the face of a potential catastrophe and loss of human life, you have to act swiftly. As natural disaster responders, the versatility of the B214 ST means we can be fighting fires one moment and rescuing passengers the next, because these helicopters are transport-certified, which means they can carry passengers and cargo.”

He also credits the skills and training of his team, who he says are some of the best in the world.

“Our team is highly skilled and trained for a wide range of disaster scenarios and adapts accordingly. I could not be prouder of our team and the work we do saving lives and protecting communities.”

The McDermott Aviation fleet of 15 helicopters will remain in Greece until October 2025 whilst its Australian-based operations continue to support flooding, fires and other natural disasters in its own backyard.