SERE Holdings boosts aviation operations with Woodgate acquisition

SERE Holdings Ltd, a family-owned Northern Ireland holding company, has completed the acquisition of Woodgate Aviation, the region’s longest-standing private air operator, founded in 1969. The deal establishes SERE Aviation Group as Northern Ireland’s sole non-scheduled aircraft operator and one of the UK’s largest specialist aviation fleets.

Woodgate provides air ambulance services under the Northern Ireland Fixed Wing Patient Transfer contract, alongside executive charter, general aviation, and fixed-base operator (FBO) services. Its dedicated hangar and on-site maintenance facilities at Belfast International Airport are now integrated into SERE’s operational portfolio.

The acquisition strengthens operational capacity across air ambulance, medical repatriation, executive charter, and ground handling services. Woodgate’s management team and staff remain in place, ensuring continuity of critical institutional knowledge and service standards.

Integration with SERE’s existing aviation businesses, including 247 Aviation and Jet Assist, leverages the group’s FBO infrastructure across Belfast International and Belfast City Airports. This guarantees comprehensive support, including aircraft refuelling, hangarage, and maintenance services for both SERE’s combined fleet and third-party operators.

SERE Holdings has committed to multi-million-pound investments to modernise and enhance the company’s capabilities, particularly for NHS service provision. The strengthened operational structure and financial backing ensure resilience and efficiency across the group.

Stanley Edgar, SERE Aviation Group managing director, highlighted the strategic importance of securing the Northern Ireland Fixed Wing Air Ambulance Service and maintaining Woodgate’s operational excellence. The acquisition integrates decades of experience into a unified, high-performing group, supporting both regional and wider UK aviation operations.

Learn how SERE Holdings is reshaping Northern Ireland’s private aviation sector with this acquisition in the complete story.