New Rescue 118 makes first visit to Sligo today

The Irish Coast Guard's new Rescue 118 helicopter will make its first visit to Sligo this afternoon.

The new 10-year contract was awarded to Bristow Ireland Limited by the Department of Transport in August 2023.

Bristow is set to provide a range of essential state services under the new aviation service contract.

These will include Maritime and Inland Search and Rescue, Environmental Monitoring, Helicopter Emergency Medical and Air Ambulance Services, with enhanced mission control and communications systems.

For the first time, the Coast Guard's aviation service will also have fixed wing aircraft capability available on 24/7 basis to support the delivery of these essential services.