HMS Gannet SAR Flight

HMS Gannet SAR Flight is a naval air rescue station based at Prestwick Airport in South Ayrshire, equipped with helicopters for emergency operations. The facility operated as a major search and rescue hub serving a vast area of Scotland and surrounding waters.

Established in 1971 as RNAS Prestwick, the station grew to become one of Scotland's key Royal Navy rescue facilities. After 45 years of service, it handed over operations to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency in 2016.

The station received the Wilkinson Sword of Peace in 1998 for its contributions to Scottish communities through emergency response and rescue missions.

The station was based at a working airport where access to the helicopter facilities and operational areas may be restricted to visitors. Check ahead to see if the site offers guided tours or special viewing opportunities.

The facility carried out a remarkable number of emergency call-outs in 2009, demonstrating its critical importance to air rescue operations in Britain. This high rate of missions showed how vital the work was for the region's safety.

Location: South Ayrshire

Part of: Fleet Air Arm

GPS coordinates: 55.51492,-4.58292

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:00