“The transfer of the UK’s search and rescue service from the military to a Texas-based helicopter company has been criticised by residents of coastal communities, politicians from all the main parties and rescue experts.
From 2016 Bristow Helicopters, part of the global Bristow Group, will take over the helicopter search and rescue (SAR) service from the RAF and navy.
As part of the £1.6bn 10-year contract, Bristow will operate helicopters from 10 bases around the country with the Department for Transport (DfT) arguing the company’s modern aircraft will be faster and more efficient than the Sea Kings that are currently used.
But though many military pilots and crew-members are expected to sign up for the Bristow service, there are fears that the ethos of a privatised operation is bound to be different to the much-admired one largely run by the RAF and navy for 70 years.” – The Guardian, 23rd March 2013.
