RSV Nuyina has extensive aviation facilities including a large hangar and flight deck aft capable of carrying up to two Sikorsky S92 heavy helicopters. 

It also has a load lifting area forward that is used for ship-shore resupply. 

Currently, the AAD operates four BK117 light twin-engine helicopters, but usually only embarks two helicopters for a station or deep field camp resupply mission. 

These helicopters have a maximum underslung load capacity of 1.2 tonnes, are usually configured in Antarctica or the sub-Antarctic to carry up to six passengers, and have a range of 300 nautical miles or 555 kilometres. 

The helicopters can be fitted with floats for overwater operations and can be used in ship/shore medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) scenarios.  They can also be used to assist in ship’s navigation through sea ice conditions.