Kestrel Aviation was established in 1985 by Captain Ray Cronin. Kestrel was established at Moorabbin Airport, moving to Mangalore Airport in 1989.
Kestrel offers state of the art capability in helicopter firefighting and emergency response, remote access transport, and advanced pilot training. Based at Mangalore in Central Victoria, Kestrel operates an extensive fleet of fixed and rotary wing aircraft ranging from light piston helicopters to multi-engine turbine helicopters and aeroplanes. It offers training programs on Helicopter Firefighting, Advanced Helicopter Training, Private and Commercial Helicopter Pilot Training.
Helicopter emergency response, remote access transport and advanced pilot training are complex tasks requiring specialist skills and equipment. Kestrel is a leading force in Australia in these fields. Kestrel also provides specialised transport solutions to mining companies and other clients in remote and inaccessible areas. Other Kestrel services include the supply of aircraft, pilots, engineering support, operational backup, training, contract management, safety audits and aviation project management.