247 Aviation, a Belfast-based provider of medical repatriation and executive air charter services, is undergoing a major operational expansion. A £7.98 million investment was provided by its parent company, SERE Holdings. The funding will facilitate the acquisition of two additional Learjet 45 aircraft and the launch of a new satellite base in southern England, significantly enhancing the company’s ability to deliver rapid-response, consultant-led medical transport across the UK and Ireland.

This expansion follows 247 Aviation’s recent accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS), positioning the organisation as the only UK-based provider operating a dedicated, CAMTS-accredited fleet of medium-range jets. This strategic growth directly responds to increasing demand for complex, fixed-wing medical repatriation services.

“This investment marks a key milestone in our development,” explains James McKnight, director of flight operations at 247 Aviation. “The Learjet 45 offers the optimal combination of range, performance and cabin configuration for intensive care patient transport. With the support of SERE Holdings, we are well positioned to expand our reach and enhance service delivery, while continuing to prioritise safety, clinical excellence and operational reliability.”

Dr Neil Crooks, consultant in intensive care medicine and anaesthesia and medical director at 247 Aviation, adds: “Every mission is delivered by our NHS-trained teams, ensuring patients receive safe, timely and expert care throughout their journey. The addition of these aircraft and the establishment of a new base in the south of England will allow us to respond more quickly to urgent cases and improve access to care across the UK and Ireland.”

Stanley Edgar, chief executive of SERE Holdings, comments: “This expansion brings 247 Aviation’s operational fleet to nine aircraft, a remarkable achievement in just five years. The company has evolved from concept to market leader in a highly specialised sector, and SERE Holdings is proud to support its continued growth. 247 Aviation’s £7.98m investment reflects our confidence in the team and the critical role 247 Aviation plays in addressing an underserved area of healthcare logistics.”

Binding purchase agreements have been signed, with both Learjet 45 aircraft expected to be registered and operational by 31 August 2025. The Learjet 45 is well suited to high-acuity transfers due to its speed, extended range and adaptable cabin, making it ideal for consultant-led ICU missions and seamless bed-to-bed repatriations from Europe and beyond.

This expansion, combining CAMTS accreditation, fleet investment and an extended UK footprint, reinforces 247 Aviation’s commitment to setting a new standard for air medical transport. The enhanced capacity will benefit insurers, assistance companies, hospitals and families alike, providing safe, efficient and clinically governed care at scale.