247 Aviation (EMC) has acquired two Learjet 45s and will launch a new base in southern England following a GBP7.98 million pound (USD10.84 million) investment by parent company SERE Holdings.
"The Learjet 45 offers the optimal combination of range, performance, and cabin configuration for intensive care patient transport," director of flight operations at 247 Aviation, James McKnight, said in a statement.
The company has signed purchase agreements for the two aircraft, which are expected to be registered and operational by August 31. One will be registered as G-EMCZ, although no further details have been disclosed. This marks the resumption of operations with the type at 247 Aviation, following the retirement of a Learjet 45(XR) earlier this year. The company's air operator's certificate (AOC) will grow to nine aircraft, with the Learjet 45s joining two DA62s, four PC-12s, and a Pilatus PC-24 added in May. Two PC-12s and the PC-24 are operated on behalf of Silver Aviation.
Additionally, the Northern Ireland-based operator is opening a new satellite base. "The addition of these aircraft and the establishment of a new base in the south of England will allow us to respond more quickly to urgent cases and improve access to care across the United Kingdom and Ireland," said Dr Neil Crooks, medical director at 247 Aviation.
Beyond air ambulance services, 247 Aviation provides executive charter flights. SERE Holdings also owns Jet Assist, a fixed-base operator (FBO) located at Belfast International and Belfast City.
247 Aviation will join two other United Kingdom AOC holders operating Learjet-family aircraft, including SaxonAir Charter, with a Learjet 40, a Learjet 45 stored at London Biggin Hill since April 2024, and two Learjet 45XRs, one of which has been parked at Biggin Hill since February 2025, and Zenith Aviation (United Kingdom) with a Learjet 45 and a Learjet 75.
