1 July 2025: Australia’s largest heli-aviation operator, McDermott Aviation, has been announced as a finalist in two categories at the 2025 Australian Aviation Awards:
- Aerial Services Business of the Year
- Training and Mentorship Program of the Year
The recognition reinforces McDermott’s role as a critical partner in emergency response, specialist aerial operations, and aviation workforce development across Australia.
With the largest helicopter fleet in the Southern Hemisphere and a fully in-house MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) capability, McDermott Aviation is built for high-risk, high-performance operations – from bushfire suppression and natural disaster response to heavy-lift logistics and remote access.
Founder and President John McDermott said 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,” Mr McDermott 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.”
In addition to its aerial operations, McDermott Aviation 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.
With one of the only live operational environments in the country where trainees gain direct exposure to real-world, high-stakes missions, McDermott continues to play a critical role in shaping the next generation of rotary aviation talent.
The winners will be announced at a black-tie gala on Thursday, 29 August 2025 in Sydney, attended by leaders from across the aviation sector.
About McDermott Aviation
McDermott Aviation, established in 1982 and headquartered on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is Australia’s largest privately owned helicopter operator. With a fleet exceeding 50 helicopters, 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.
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 Andalusia, Alabama, and the acquisition of Transwest Helicopters in Canada. McDermott delivers safe, reliable, and technically advanced aviation services domestically and abroad. For more information, visit www.mcdermottaviation.com.
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