McDermott Aviation has introduced a manufacturer-backed programme for the McDermott 214ST helicopter platform at Verticon 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. Recognised as an operator of Bell 214 series helicopters, the Australian-owned company was positioning itself as the manufacturer and global supplier of the 214ST, supported by its ownership of the aircraft’s type certif

The move represents a strategic evolution for the Queensland-headquartered aviation company, which has spent decades operating, maintaining and engineering the aircraft in demanding environments including aerial firefighting, heavy-lift logistics and disaster response operations.

The McDermott 214ST is a twin-engine heavy utility helicopter powered by GE CT7 engines. The aircraft can lift external loads of up to 7,900 pounds, cruise at speeds up to 160 knots and reach ranges exceeding 300 nautical miles. Future variants will incorporate the latest-generation Safran Aneto family powerplants to enhance performance, efficiency and reliability.

The platform has been widely deployed across aerial firefighting, heavy-lift operations and disaster response missions, while also supporting search and rescue activities and specialised work in natural resource industries.

Ownership of the 214ST type certificate enables McDermott Aviation to oversee ongoing airframe improvements, ensure long-term parts availability and develop mission-specific modifications for operators worldwide.

The company plans to offer the aircraft through direct purchase, dry lease and fully supported wet lease arrangements, alongside training programmes, engineering services and global logistics support. Delivery slots for refurbished aircraft are expected to begin from 2027, with factory-new aircraft targeted for 2028–2029 production timelines.

“We’ve spent decades operating these aircraft around the world in some of the most demanding conditions imaginable,” McDermott adds. “We understand what operators need because we’ve been in their position. This programme is about ensuring the industry continues to have access to a heavy-lift helicopter platform that is reliable, capable and supported by people who know it inside out.”