Two search and rescue helicopters based in Kent relocate 100 miles to Lee-on-the-Solent
Two search and rescue helicopters based in Kent have been relocated nearly 100 miles away to Lee-on-the-Solent after a row over airport fees.
HM Coastguard's operator Bristow said it relocated the aircraft after the "suspension of out-of-hours access and the introduction of significant cost increases" at Lydd Airport in Kent.
The airfield said its "core costs" were not covered and that it was "continuing to engage constructively" with Bristow.
The two helicopters, which have been based at Lydd Airport since 2015, are now operating from Lee-on-the-Solent.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority said the move had occurred with its permission and it was "confident that Bristow's provision of helicopter search and rescue operations meets our safety requirements".