The new helicopter is being operated on behalf of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency by CHC Scotia, which won the interim contract to supply aircraft to the MCA from 2007 to 2012. The interim contract provides for commercial search and rescue helicopter services from four civilian operated bases at Sumburgh, Stornoway, Lee-on-Solent and Portland for a five year period which started in July.

The service provides a 24 hour coverage at Stornoway, where the S92 is based. The new helicopter can fly faster and further to those in distress at sea and on the coast. It is fitted with specialised technical equipment including an on board automatic identification system (AIS), specifically designed for search and rescue.

Fitted SAR options include an improved AFCS with auto-hover capability,  forward looking infra red (FLIR), dual rescue hoist, full sliding door, bubble window, cargo hook,  search-light and loud hailer.

The cabin can be arranged for installing triple medical litter kit, one or two auxiliary fuel tanks, folding utility seats and ample storage. The designated operator console provides search data including FLIR and enhancing crew coordination on SAR missions.