Australia's largest privately owned helicopter operator, McDermott Aviation, has strengthened its fleet with the arrival of a factory-new Airbus H125 helicopter, marking a milestone in the company's ongoing investment in fleet capability, operational efficiency and long-term growth.

Powered by a Safran Arriel 2D engine, the Airbus H125 is regarded as one of the world's most versatile and capable single-engine helicopters, with a proven track record across utility, emergency response and specialist aviation operations globally.

Founder and president of McDermott Aviation, John McDermott, says the acquisition reflects the company's commitment to continually investing in the aircraft, technology and capability required to support its growing operations: “Over the past four decades, we have built one of the world's most capable specialist helicopter fleets through strategic investment, engineering expertise and an unwavering focus on operational excellence. The addition of the Airbus H125 represents another step forward in that journey and provides a modern, highly versatile platform that complements our existing fleet. The H125 has an outstanding reputation for reliability, performance and adaptability, making it an excellent fit for our business and the diverse range of operations we undertake.

“As our operations continue to evolve both in Australia and internationally, we will continue investing in the aircraft, people and infrastructure needed to support our clients and maintain our position at the forefront of specialist aviation.”

The decision to acquire the H125 was driven by its operational capability, versatility and compatibility with McDermott Aviation's existing fleet.

The aircraft shares similarities with the company's AS355F1 helicopters, providing commonality in maintenance knowledge, tooling and parts support, helping streamline its integration into the fleet while supporting long-term operational efficiencies. The aircraft will be based on the Sunshine Coast.

The acquisition forms part of McDermott Aviation's broader strategy to continue expanding and modernising its fleet while supporting a diverse range of aviation operations across Australia and overseas.

Established in 1982 and headquartered on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, McDermott Aviation is Australia's largest privately owned helicopter operator. With a fleet of more than 60 aircraft, including the world's largest collection of Bell 214 series aircraft, McDermott operates 15 Bell 214Bs and 14 Bell 214STs. McDermott Aviation (MCDAV) owns the Type Certificate for both the Bell 214B and 214ST series and is currently preparing to commence production of its modified Utility 214ST model.

Employing more than 300 personnel globally, the company specialises in aerial firefighting, heavy lifting, agricultural spraying, infrastructure support, emergency response, aerial application, tourism and training. McDermott maintains bases across Australia and the Pacific, including in New South Wales, Western Australia, Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia. Internationally, it has a strong operational presence in Greece and is expanding in North America through major maintenance facilities in Alabama and the acquisition of Transwest Helicopters in Canada. McDermott delivers safe, reliable and technically advanced aviation services domestically and abroad.