Aviation News – Norway plans to firm options for two additional Leonardo AW101 “SAR Queen” helicopters to support the creation of a seventh national search and rescue base, according to proposals unveiled by the justice ministry. The move would strengthen coverage across the country’s demanding maritime and Arctic operating areas, where rapid response can be critical. The AW101 fleet was originally selected to modernize Norway’s all-weather search and rescue capability, replacing ageing platforms and expanding operational reach.