As Greece enters another fire season, one of Australia’s most experienced aerial firefighting companies, McDermott Aviation, has again answered the call. This week, six of the company’s B214 ST helicopters were deployed from Australia to join its European fleet, reinforcing nine aircraft already in place—including three arriving from the United States—to help protect the nation through its long, dry summer.
It marks the fifth consecutive year that the Queensland-based company has sent aircraft and personnel to Greece as part of its international disaster response program.
“We’re proud to return to Greece,” said John McDermott, Founder and President of McDermott Aviation. “Last year, our team dropped over 75 million litres of water during more than 4,000 hours of operations across 14 helicopters.”
The Greek fire season officially runs from 1 May to 31 October. During this period, McDermott Aviation will have a 15-strong helicopter fleet stationed across the country, with around 50 of its Australian and international personnel on rotation at any given time.
Supporting Greece through crisis
Australia’s McDermott Aviation is a trusted partner in Greece’s response to natural disasters. In 2023, its crews were active in major firefighting efforts near Athens, Lake Marathonas and Penteli Mountain—locations that were severely affected by wildfires that forced mass evacuations and destroyed homes and infrastructure.
The company also played a critical role in responding to floods that swept through central Greece. Just as its fleet was preparing to return home to Australia, catastrophic rainfall hit Volos, Karditsa, and Larissa, causing widespread devastation.
“When the call came, we didn’t hesitate,” McDermott recalled. “We immediately deployed seven helicopters to assist with rescue operations. The B214 ST helicopters we use are transport-certified, meaning they can switch from firefighting to carrying passengers and supplies in emergency situations.”
Australian expertise on the front line
McDermott credits much of the company’s success to the skill and adaptability of its team. “We deploy highly trained personnel from Australia and around the world—people who are prepared for anything from wildfires to floods,” he said. “They’re among the best in the world, and I couldn’t be prouder of their work.”
Currently, around 200 people are engaged in the company’s operations in Greece, including Greek liaison officers, aviation crews, and coordination teams.
As the Greek summer heats up, McDermott Aviation’s helicopters will remain in place through to October, serving as a critical line of defence. Meanwhile, its Australian-based operations continue to tackle floods, fires, and emergencies on home soil.
