Search and Rescue: RAF and Navy service to be taken over. Pic: © STV
The Government is set to announce a major shake up of helicopter search and rescue services in the UK.
The preferred bidder to take over the operations currently run by the RAF and Royal Navy will be announced on Tuesday.
The private sector is already responsible for the Coastguard service.
The changes are due to be phased in at the start of 2012.
Aviation Journalist Jim Ferguson said: “There’s going to be no loss of experience. And we’ve already proved (in the north-east) that civilian crews are every bit as good as the military.
“Having said that, it doesn’t matter who flies Search and Rescue, so long as they have the right kit, they’re properly trained and properly funded and if need be they’re prepared to risk their own lives to save others.”
The Coastguard operate from Stornoway and Sumburgh, while the RAF and Navy have helicopters at Lossiemouth and Prestwick.
