The helicopters started training operations from the base some weeks ago
A new Coastguard search and rescue helicopter service has begun work at London Ashford Airport at Lydd in Kent.
Bristow Helicopters will be running the service for HM Coastguard after being awarded a 10-year contract in 2013.
HM Coastguard has spoken of its pride at its "first civilian base in Kent" as the operation started.
The new base's chief pilot, Captain Neil Robertson, said: "Everyone at the base feels privileged to be involved in delivering such an important service."
Manston Airport was the site originally chosen as one of 10 UK bases for the helicopters, but that plan was scrapped after its closure last year.
However, in April, Transport Minister John Hayes paved the way for the service to return to the airport if it reopens.
The government announced that instead of agreeing a long-term contract for Bristow to base its helicopters elsewhere, it had agreed a one-year deal to temporarily base them at Lydd.
