HM Coastguard Opens Seasonal Oban SAR Base

HM Coastguard has opened a new seasonal search and rescue (SAR) helicopter base at Oban, Scotland with a Leonardo AW189 helicoper , while introducing an AW139 at Caernarfon as part of the UK’s Second-Generation Search and Rescue (UKSAR2G) Aviation programme.

The expansion strengthens search and rescue coverage during the busy summer season by adding a dedicated AW189 base on Scotland’s west coast while modernizing the permanent fleet with a new AW139 in Wales under the long-term UKSAR2G modernization programme.

OBAN, Scotland — HM Coastguard has brought a new seasonal search and rescue helicopter base into service at Oban as part of its UK Second-Generation Search and Rescue Aviation (UKSAR2G) programme. The facility officially entered operation on 15 March and will enhance emergency response during the summer months along Scotland’s west coast.

The new base features a purpose-built search and rescue hangar, an operational planning room, offices and crew accommodation. An AgustaWestland AW189 rescue helicopter will operate from Oban between April and September with a 15-minute readiness during daily operating hours from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

On the same day, HM Coastguard also introduced a new AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter at its permanent base in Caernarfon, Wales. The aircraft replaces the Sikorsky S-92 previously assigned to the station and provides continuous 24-hour search and rescue coverage.

The Oban facility is one of two new seasonal bases being established under the UKSAR2G programme, with another planned for Carlisle. The additional locations are intended to strengthen search and rescue capability in regions that experience increased demand during the summer tourism season.

UKSAR2G is HM Coastguard’s long-term modernization programme, delivering next-generation search and rescue capability through a fleet of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. The aviation services are provided by Bristow Helicopters Ltd under two 10-year contracts designed to improve operational capability while delivering value for taxpayers.

Paddy O’Callaghan, Chief Coastguard said "We’re pleased to take into service a new seasonal base at Oban and a state-of-the-art new aircraft further down the coast at Caernarfon. Both form part of the UKSAR2G programme, demonstrating HM Coastguard’s commitment to innovation and ongoing enhancement, as well as continuing our core work in saving lives at sea and on the coast."

About HM Coastguard: HM Coastguard, part of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, coordinates maritime search and rescue throughout the United Kingdom. Working with helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, lifeboats and volunteer rescue teams, it is responsible for responding to emergencies at sea and along the UK’s coastline.