The Queensland-based company continues which has provided critical support on the frontline of Greece’s wildfire crisis, including its latest deployment to the island of Chios has been named a finalist in two categories at the 2025 Australian Aviation Awards.
McDermott Aviation is Australia’s largest helicopter aviation company and has been nominated in the categories for Aerial Services Business of the Year and Training and Mentorship Program of the Year.
The Sunshine Coast-based operator, known for high-risk, high-performance aerial missions, has again answered Greece’s call for assistance, marking its fifth consecutive year of firefighting support in the country. Six of McDermott’s powerful B214ST helicopters were deployed to join their European fleet in May and are now actively engaged in combating the devastating wildfires that have gripped Chios for three consecutive days.
With over 60,000 acres burned and multiple villages evacuated, the fires have triggered a large-scale emergency response. Greece’s Minister of Civil Protection, Yannis Kefalogiannis, confirmed on Monday that the fires appeared to be deliberately lit, with multiple outbreaks across the island’s rugged terrain. An arson investigation is now underway.
McDermott Aviation has joined more than 600 Greek emergency personnel, including firefighters, army units, and volunteers, in what authorities have described as a “titanic effort.”
Battling extreme conditions with wind speeds exceeding 70 km/h, aircraft and helicopters have been vital in containing the flames and preventing loss of life. Fortunately, no fatalities or home losses have been reported, thanks to swift evacuations and coordinated responses.
“This is our fifth year in Greece,” said John McDermott, Founder and President of McDermott Aviation.
“When the call comes, we answer. We’re proud to stand with the Greek people again.”
In 2024, the company operated 15 helicopters across Greece, supported by a 50-strong firefighting crew, many of whom are Australian. McDermott dropped more than 75 million litres of water over 4,000 hours of operation in Greece alone.
Founded in 1982, McDermott Aviation has grown into the largest privately owned helicopter operator in the Southern Hemisphere, with a fleet of more than 50 helicopters, including the world’s largest collection of Bell 214 series aircraft.
Its nomination in this year’s Australian Aviation Awards reflects its technical expertise and its growing legacy of international solidarity.
“This is recognition of our team’s skill, professionalism and deep commitment to getting the job done safely and without compromise,” said McDermott.
