Australia’s largest heli-aviation operator McDermott Aviation is a finalist in two categories at the 2025 Australian Aviation Awards: Aerial Services Business of the Year and Training and Mentorship Program of the Year. The recognition reflects McDermott‘s role as a critical partner in emergency response, specialist aerial operations and aviation workforce development across the country.

With the largest helicopter fleet in the southern hemisphere and a fully in-house MRO capability, McDermott is equipped for high-risk, high-performance operations. Its work spans bushfire suppression, natural disaster response, heavy-lift logistics and remote access.

Founder and president John McDermott says the dual finalist announcement was a proud moment for the business and its people: “This is recognition of our team’s skill, professionalism and deep commitment to getting the job done safely and without compromise,” he said. “For over 40 years, we’ve been on the frontline in some of the toughest conditions, and we’re still here because we invest in our people, we back our standards and we focus on what matters: showing up when and where we’re needed most.”

Beyond aerial operations, McDermott has also been recognised for its work supporting aviation’s future workforce. As a finalist in the Training and Mentorship Program of the Year category, the business has been acknowledged for its in-house training pathways, mentorship culture and investment in early-career pilots, engineers and aviation professionals.

As one of the only live operational environments in Australia where trainees gain exposure to real-world, high-stakes missions, McDermott plays a vital role in developing the next generation of rotary aviation talent.

Winners will be announced at a black-tie gala in Sydney on 29 August, attended by leaders from across the aviation sector.