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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
    started a topic Offshore News

    Offshore News

    HOUSTON, TX--(Marketwired - Jan 24, 2014)

    Era Group Inc. (
    NYSE: ERA) (Era) is pleased to announce its Search and Rescue (SAR) Program ("EraSAR"), operating in the Gulf of Mexico, has reached its 500 mission milestone. Since the initial implementation in August 2010, the program has experienced continuous growth supporting a primary membership group consisting of its initial customer, Anadarko, followed by several other oil and gas companies, including, among others, Shell Oil, Fieldwood Energy (formerly Apache), and Statoil. To date, more than 60 oil and gas and energy service companies have utilized this service. Annual mission completions have grown on an average of 28% per year, averaging 21 missions per month.



    "It's been great to see the program grow and expand throughout the years. It's only due to the collaboration of the oil and gas companies and the hard work and professionalism of the crews that make this possible. We never wish that anyone should need to use the service, but they all sleep better at night knowing that we are available and ready should they need us," said Paul White, Era Senior Vice President, Domestic.

    Over 300,000 people support the Gulf of Mexico oilfield to operate over 3,400 oil and gas facilities. Since 2007, federal regulators report that there have been 40 fatalities, 790 fires/explosions and 1,887 injuries. With this type of volume, oil and gas companies have turned to commercial aviation operators to address emergency response needs. As a result, the EraSAR/Priority 1 Air Rescue (P1AR) team was born.

    "As we see additional SAR opportunities both here and abroad," said Sten Gustafson, Era's Chief Executive Officer, "we have chosen to elevate our emphasis on developing these opportunities by creating a focused SAR service line." This SAR service line will be led by Director of SAR, Earl Hitzman, Jr., who joined Era as a SAR pilot in 2012 following a 22-year career serving our country in the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force. While in the Air Force, Hitzman served in the illustrious US Air Force Combat Rescue unit, where he was involved in complex combat rescue operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

    The EraSAR/P1AR team, based on the Gulf coast of Louisiana and Texas, is comprised of four EMD-certified medical dispatchers, 16 IFR, NVG, air ambulance, and hoist-qualified pilots, and 36 medically-qualified rescue specialists, including paramedics, hoist system operators, and rescue swimmers. Operating three SAR-configured AW139 Air Ambulances in support of the offshore oil and gas industry, the team specializes in providing long-range advanced life support and SAR services anywhere within the Gulf of Mexico, day or night. Adding to the aircraft's basic SAR capabilities are enhancements to include a Goodrich dual hoist system, night vision, integrated auto hover with search pattern modes, Nightsun and Forward Looking Infrared Imaging System (FLIR).
    http://www.powerengineeringint.com/m...ission-mi.html

  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    Rapid Growth in China's Offshore Market Raises Concerns Over Pilot Shortage

    A rapidly growing helicopter market in China is raising concerns about the shortages of properly trained pilots and mechanics, said Chris Jaran, vice president for Bell Helicopter in China.

    Jaran, who provided a helicopter market update yesterday at ABACE 2015, noted that deliveries to China grew 30 percent last year. This followed a five-year period where shipments to the region grew annually by 20 percent.

    “The really good news for us is the tremendous growth,” said Jaran. However, he added, the growth is highlighting concerns that infrastructure and properly trained professionals are not keeping pace.

    While there are now 655 helicopters in China, he said there might not be as many fully qualified pilots for these machines. To make things worse, many of the helicopters involve two-pilot operations.

    Turbine helicopters account for 61 percent of the fleet, mostly in the light and medium categories. The fleet, Jaran added, is concentrated in eastern China, where the large populations centers are. Central China is slowly growing its helicopter fleet, but few are in the north and western parts of the country.

    The fleet is predominantly focused on multi-mission roles, followed by flight training and offshore operations. China is starting to see the use of helicopters for emergency medical services operations, Jaran said, noting seven helicopters currently are involved in such operations in the country.

    The industry is hoping that China will consider providing immediate flight plan clearances for EMS operations, he said. That is one of several factors that could boost the EMS market, according to Jaran. Others include operations at all domestic airports, approval for all local helipads and the consideration of adding EMS to approved operations for government subsidies.

    Another critical factor for the growing helicopter market in China is education, Jaran said. “This is a new industry with a lot of first-time buyers,” he noted. Customers need to be educated on everything from maintenance to operations and safety.
    http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-ne...ge-concerns​

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    ExxonMobil to Commence Exploration in Guyana

    US energy giant ExxonMobil is launching its nearly $200 million oil exploration project in the waters off the coast of Guyana.

    The company’s ship, Deepwater Champion, is at the Starbroek Block offshore, according to a government statement.

    The country’s president, Donald Ramotar, was on hand this week to tour ExxonMobil’s office on Market Street in Georgetown, receiving a briefing from ExxonMobil’s country manager Jeff Simons.



    The deepwater drillship 'Deepwater Champion' which is to commence exploration in Guyana

    “I’m quite impressed with what is taking place, and looking forward to going out myself,” Ramotar said.

    The project is slated to be carried out over a 10-year period, with three periods of two phases each.

    The operations include a drillship with 200 crew and contractors; helicopter support, two shore bases and a waste treatment facility.

    Oil exploration is not new for the country on the coast of South America, which first struck oil in the 1980s.

    The country’s government said there was “high optimism” that oil would be found in “commercial quantities.”

    ExxonMobil joins a number of other firms exploring in Guyana’s offshore basin, including Repsol, Anadarko Guyana Co, CGX Energy and Nabi Oil and Gas.

    The move has led to tensions between Guyana and neighbouring Venezuela, which reportedly objects to the offshore project.
    http://www.caribjournal.com/2015/03/...tion-project/#

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    Bristow Orders 17 Airbus H175's

    Bristow Group has raised its total firm orders for Airbus Helicopters’ H175 to 17, and also signed a comprehensive support services agreement for its new seven-metric-ton-category rotorcraft.

    H175 is the new name of the twin-engine EC175. Airbus Helicopters announced at the Heli-Expo 2015 helicopter industry trade show in Orlando, Florida, the renaming of its products to be aligned with the naming of Airbus products overall.



    Bristow will now receive 17 H175's

    This significant H175 endorsement was formalised during a signing ceremony in the company’s booth. It expands upon Bristow’s initial order agreement, announced two years ago.

    “I issued a challenge to the industry at Helitech a few months ago,” said Jonathan Baliff, president and CEO of Bristow Group. “As Bristow purchases helicopters in larger volumes, we look to partner with aircraft manufacturers who will step up to more comprehensive airline-style purchase and support agreements. We commend Airbus Helicopters for being the first partner to proactively share risk and responsibilities and commit to work closely with Bristow throughout the entire lifecycle of aircraft ownership.”

    Based in Houston, Texas, Bristow is a leading provider of helicopter services to the worldwide offshore energy industry. Its current inventory of Airbus Helicopters-built rotorcraft includes the lightweight H125 (formerly the AS350), H135 (EC135) and BK117, along with the medium H155 (EC155) and heavy AS332 and H225 (EC225) Super Puma versions.

    Deliveries of the H175s will begin October 2016, with these helicopters to be deployed by Bristow on oil and gas airlift duties.

    “Airbus Helicopters and Bristow share a long history together, and I am very grateful to open this new chapter in our partnership. Their order underscores the H175’s position as a rotorcraft of choice for oil and gas operations, which offers a cost-effective solution with excellent operational performance, passenger comfort and safety,” said Airbus Helicopters President Guillaume Faury. “Additionally, the new support services agreement with Bristow further underscores our customer support focus for the highest levels of fleet serviceability, backed by the full resources of Airbus Helicopters across the globe.”

    The H175 is the world’s newest super-medium, twin-engine helicopter, bringing new levels of operational flexibility, performance and safety to a full range of mission applications. Since its entry into service for North Sea offshore operations only one week following the first delivery of this helicopter in December 2014, the fleet has performed more than 400 flight hours with availability rates of nearly 90%.

    The H175 has been certified to the latest airworthiness standards, covering both the rotorcraft and the new Airbus Helicopters-developed Helionix® avionics suite – providing increased safety through reduced pilot workload, enhanced situational awareness, improved flight envelope protection and system redundancy.
    http://www.energyglobal.com/upstream...us-orders-564/

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    Cougar S-92 Encounters Technical Fault

    A Cougar Helicopters Sikorsky S-92, flight 231, has had to overnight at the Hibernia platform, following an incident involving "vibration through the controls" accompanied by a warning indicator light, according to the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (CNLOPB). The aircraft was expected to return to St. John's in Newfoundland.


    ​A Cougar Helicopters S-92

    Cougar technicians were flown out to Hibernia, and determined that the aircraft could not be flown without corrective maintenance.

    At the time of the report, the aircraft was awaiting the arrival of spare parts.

    The Hibernia field is situated approximately 315 kilometres east-southeast of St. John's.
    http://www.thetelegram.com/News/Loca...0%88Hibernia/1

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    RLC Lease 10 Aircraft from Waypoint

    Waypoint Leasing has announced that it has closed on a multi-aircraft agreement with RLC, the largest privately held helicopter operator in the Gulf of Mexico. The initial transaction includes the purchase and leaseback of 10 helicopters, including the Bell 407 and Bell 206L4, supporting near-shore shelf production of natural gas in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.

    “This is a great opportunity for Waypoint to support one of the leading helicopter operators in the Gulf of Mexico, and marks a significant entrance for us into the U.S. market, the largest helicopter market in the world,” said Ed Washecka, Chief Executive Officer of Waypoint. “We think there’s significant long-term demand in this region and look forward to supporting RLC as it continues to grow.”

    Dru Milke, President and CEO of RLC said, “This transaction further solidifies RLC’s balance sheet and will allow us to support our growth initiatives in the coming years. Waypoint has the market expertise, flexibility and access to capital to close transactions quickly, allowing us to focus on our mission of being the industry’s most efficient and customer-focused operator.”

    This transaction brings Waypoint’s portfolio to a total of 95 aircraft valued in excess of $1.1 billion and operating in 22 countries.
    http://www.businesswire.com/news/hom...C#.VNsG8-aUcnk

    http://www.rlcllc.net/​

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    IBA Analyses Leasing Arena and Future of Automated Operations

    After the completion of the GECAS/Milestone deal a few days ago, the question still remains, will there be more helicopter lessor mergers or is there still space for more in the market? Kim Seward, Aviation Analyst for IBA, comments “The sector as a whole is waiting with slightly baited breath to see how the oil price is going to impact the civil helicopter industry. The likely reality is that there is going to be some decrease in demand and, even though the rose tinted view on the market will go, we forecast that demand will plateau or only drop slightly. As a result of this, financial players in the helicopter arena might be wise to hold off on bold business decisions until the world energy demand and markets stabilise. It’s not a time to panic but, to answer the question, the space for additional lessors in the helicopter market is waning.”

    When it comes to the future of the civilian helicopter industry, safety is very much the primary focus. Usman Ahmed, Senior Aviation Analyst for IBA, advises, “Despite making huge modifications to North Sea operations, the UK CAA is confident that there are still changes to be made. There is a big focus on attempting to reduce the likelihood of human error such as enhancing CRM (Crew Resource Management) and communication. But ultimately there is only a certain amount of human error that can be removed while there is still a human in the loop.”

    So when will automation become as ubiquitous in the helicopter sector as it is in the fixed wing commercial industry? Usman continues, “Technology such as Sikorsky’s automated rig approach system has highlighted the fact that the removal of the human element of helicopter flying is fast approaching. Despite being very much ‘the norm’ in the airline industry, automated approach systems are a relatively new entity to the SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) of rotary wing operators. With operators such as PHI already using the system, and with plans to retrofit the whole fleet, at what point do automated systems become the norm and not having it has a negative value impact?”

    Earlier this year, Kaman, the US Army and Lockheed Martin collaborated to convert the oddly shaped K-MAX medium lift helicopter into an “unmanned aircraft system (UAS) capable of autonomous or remote controlled cargo delivery”. Although this is not strictly an independent operation, the pilot is just a little further away than is traditional, it does demonstrate the fact that pilots are becoming more and more removed.

    Usman concludes, “One thing is for sure, the time of old-fashioned helicopter flying is fast becoming a thing of the past, with technology at the forefront of market demand. The first full fly-by-wire helicopter is almost upon us, and will be a significant milestone for the helicopter industry. As to the question of automation in the helicopter cockpit, it is certainly something that is not in the too distant future.”
    http://www.aviationpros.com/press_re...ted-operations

    http://www.ibagroup.com/

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    HNZ Announces New Nova Scotia Contract

    HNZ are pleased to announce that they have been awarded a contract by Shell Canada to provide offshore personnel and cargo transport, medevac and search and rescue services from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. The services will be delivered by HNZ's subsidiary Canadian Helicopters Ltd, which has provided emergency medical services support to Nova Scotia's Emergency Health Services from the Halifax Stanfield International Airport since 1999.

    Following a competitive tender process, the contract, which is subject to the execution of a definitive agreement, was awarded in support of Shell's "Shelburne Basin Venture Exploration Drilling Project" which is expected to commence mid-year of 2015 for a duration of approximately 260 days. The contract will utilize two leased Sikorsky S-92 aircraft for offshore personnel, cargo and medevac transport and a third leased Sikorsky S-92 for dedicated search and rescue operations. Over the term of the initial contract period, revenues are expected to be approximately CAD$20 million dollars.

    HNZ's President and CEO, Don Wall, said "we are excited to expand our current aviation operations in Halifax to include this important step in supporting Shell's exploration operations offshore Nova Scotia and we appreciate the continuing confidence Shell has placed in HNZ. We look forward to providing a safe and efficient service, while expanding our capabilities in Nova Scotia into heavy offshore helicopters including a full, all weather search and rescue service, in the North Atlantic. This contract indicates success in executing our expansion and diversification strategy post-Afghanistan, and as a Canadian owned Corporation, marks the natural next step of entering the Canadian offshore oil and gas market."
    http://www.newswire.ca/en/story/1477...rt-contract​

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    Sikorsky Opens Houston Office

    Sikorsky Aircraft, the 90-year old helicopter manufacturer, has opened an office in Houston this week in an effort to enhance its support towards its Gulf-based clients. Sikorsky's new office is based in the 'Woodlands' (a residential and corporate park) approx. 45 kms north of Houston, and will initially operate with four staff.

    "Our new proximity to the Gulf of Mexico will enable us to engage more effectively with our clients" said David Martin, Sikorsky's Vice President for Energy and Oil.

    As part of a wider tour, the manufacturer's S-76D passed through West Houston Airport on Friday and performed a number of demonstration flights for oil and gas clients including Shell, Hess and Respol.

    The oil and gas sector represents about 25-40% of the market for large civilian helicopters, says Brandon Dobell, an analyst at William Blair, a wealth management firm. About 80 S-76 series helicopters and 50 S-92's currently operate in the Gulf.

    Photos: Sikorsky's S-76D demonstrator, N7657M, as seen at West Houston Airport on 23rd January 2015, performing demonstration flights for oil and gas customers. (Photos by James Nielsen):






    AN.

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    RDC supports New R&D to Improve Offshore Helicopter Safety

    The Research & Development Corporation of Newfoundland and Labrador (RDC) is investing $350,000 in two research and development projects to help personnel survive helicopter ditching or abandonment in water. These R&D projects, related to escape exits and survival skills, are being undertaken by Falck Safety Services (Canada) with funding from RDC, Petroleum Research Newfoundland & Labrador, and Falck. The total value of the projects is approximately $700,000.

    "The Provincial Government remains committed to ensuring the health and safety of the province's offshore workers. One of the ways we do that is investing in projects such as these" said the Honourable Darin King, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development and Minister Responsible for the Research & Development Corporation

    The first project seeks to identify the specific human factor requirements to open a Sikorsky S-92 push-out emergency escape exit. Findings from this project may provide critical health and safety components necessary for future training guidance. The second project will investigate the effect of wave patterns on the performance and retention of sea survival skills in offshore workers. This project will provide information on optimal training conditions, and how escape and survival skills are acquired.

    "This research will provide valuable incremental information to trainers, safety and survival manufacturers, and regulatory bodies. The outcomes could also be applicable globally in terms of future underwater escape training and exit design" said Glenn Janes, CEO, Research & Development Corporation

    The S92 exit and sea survival research projects demonstrate Falck Safety Service Canada's ongoing examination of human performance in harsh environments.

    "Ultimately, we (FSSC) want to ensure that workers return home safely to their family and friends. Thanks to the funding provided by RDC and PRNL, these projects will provide a superior understanding of the complex issues that could be faced while traveling to and from, or working, offshore. This new knowledge will then be used to develop advanced training solutions that are better suited to preparing individuals for situations that we hope they will never face." – Dr. Michael Taber, Falck Safety Services (Canada)

    RDC is a provincial Crown corporation responsible for improving Newfoundland and Labrador's research and development performance. RDC works with research and development stakeholders including business, academia and government agencies and departments to make strategic investments in people, R&D opportunities, and infrastructure.
    http://www.newswire.ca/en/story/1474...icopter-safety

    http://www.falck.ca/en/safetyservices/

    http://www.rdc.org/​

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    Erickson Signs First Offshore Contract for Services in Brazil

    Erickson Aircrane have announced today that the company will expand its relationship with HRT Participações em Petróleo, S.A. (“HRT”) with a two-year contract beginning Q1 2015. This signing furthers the partnership between HRT and Erickson and demonstrates Erickson’s strong market position in the South American oil and gas industry. Two Sikorsky S-76C+ helicopters will be used to transport HRT’s personnel to their off-shore rig 60 miles from Rio de Janeiro.

    Brazil is expected to lead the global growth of the oil and gas market over the next several years and is anticipated to see the highest increase in ranking of the world’s oil reserves between now and 2020. Air Amazonia has been HRT’s trusted aerial service provider since 2011, and Erickson has a reputation of expertise, strong past performance and safety. This combination of attributes reinforces the company’s growing reputation within the South American oil and gas Industry.

    “This contract builds on our work being executed in Ecuador, Peru and Brazil and solidifies our strategic presence in South America,” said Udo Rieder, Erickson President and CEO. “This is our first win in the off-shore oil and gas market and we look forward to continuing to expand our presence.”
    http://investors.ericksonaircrane.co...&ID=2007785​

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    ERA Signs New Contracts in Gulf of Mexico

    Era have today announced that they have secured contracts for three additional medium helicopters in the Gulf of Mexico. The helicopters, which include two Sikorsky S-76s and one AgustaWestland AW139, will be used to support drilling programs and various projects for three of the Company's oil and gas partners.


    An ERA AW139

    "Era's proven ability to consistently provide safe, efficient and reliable transportation services is further evidenced by the addition of these contracts with our oil and gas partners," said Paul White, Senior Vice President, Commercial. "Our commitment to deliver value, dedication and overall excellence in all aspects of our operating scope continues to drive growth in our domestic and international operations."
    https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/er...000667.html​

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    First S-76D for Africa

    Sikorsky Aircraft has announced that Titan Helicopter Group (THG) has accepted delivery of the first S-76D helicopter that will operate in Africa. The aircraft is configured for offshore service. An acceptance ceremony was held Wednesday (Dec. 17) at Associated Aircraft Group (AAG), a Sikorsky company based in Wappingers Falls, New York. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.

    The S-76D helicopter that THG will operate will be on lease from Milestone Aviation Group. Milestone has 86 Sikorsky aircraft in its fleet with 55 S-92 helicopters and 31 S-76 aircraft including four S-76D helicopters.



    Africa's first S-76D will be delivered to the Titan Helicopter Group and will perform offshore duties

    "The S-76D helicopter has quickly spread to various markets around the world, and Africa is another key region with many potential customers," said Ed Beyer, Vice President, Sikorsky Commercial Systems & Services. "It's always a pleasure to work with Titan as well as Milestone Aviation, and we can't wait to see how the S-76D will elevate their business."

    Titan Helicopter Group (THG) was established in 1993 and is headquartered in South Africa. Its fleet currently features Sikorsky S-76 A++, S-76C and S-76C+ helicopters as well as the S-61N aircraft.

    "The S-76D is the medium-sized aircraft of choice for various offshore customers in Africa, and THG is excited to be the first operator to introduce the aircraft on the continent," said Jide Adebayo, COO of Titan Helicopter Group.

    "We are proud to commence a partnership with Titan Helicopter Group and help this long-standing S-76 operator expand its fleet and capabilities with the S-76D," said Robert Thor Dranitzke, Managing Director of Milestone Aviation Group. "We believe that Titan and the S-76D will achieve great success on the African continent."
    http://www.prnewswire.com/news-relea...012671.html​

    http://www.titanhelicopters.com/

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    Airbus Helps Develop Industry’s First Flight Crew Operating Manual

    In a joint effort with offshore helicopter operators, Airbus Helicopters is developing the rotorcraft industry’s first Flight Crew Operating Manual (FCOM). The FCOM documents best practices for flight crews on Airbus Helicopters EC225 Super Pumas operating in the oil and gas industry.

    The initial source document gives manufacturer guidance on enhanced operational safety and efficiency in routine situations. Further developments will address abnormal situations. Specific topics include glass cockpit operation, automated systems and crew resource management (CRM).

    The initial EC225 FCOM will be followed by updates to expand the content, and additional manuals are planned for other Airbus Helicopters rotorcraft deployed in oil and gas missions, including the new EC175.

    The EC225 FCOM is available on the Airbus Helicopters e-TechPub (Customer Portal), and will be offered free of charge through 2015.
    http://www.aviationtoday.com/the-che...l#.VIlBNdKUcnk

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    Offshore Satcom on Demand

    For years, satcom on a rig has been 'fit and forget' - you pay a fixed monthly fee for between 256 kbps and 1.5 kbps, and then everyone in the company has to share it up. That could be all about to change.

    Satellites have been getting much more powerful over the past decade, which means they can carry a lot more data - and at the same time, oil companies have been coming up with new ways to use it.

    But most oil companies still manage their satcoms the way they used to, with a fixed monthly budget for a fixed throughput, of between 256 kbps and 1.5 mbps.

    This might all be about to change. Oil and gas communications company Harris CapRock Communications is now offering satcoms on demand, up to 15 mbps, where a company can make a request for higher bandwidth speeds for a certain period of time, and pay for it by the hour.

    The technical name for the Advanced Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) solution is 'dynamic bandwidth management (dSCPC) network architecture'. So far seven companies in the Gulf of Mexico are using it.

    The service is currently available across North America, the North Sea, Africa, Brazil and the Asia Pacific.

    So far most oil and gas customers have not asked for more than 10 mbps but Harris CapRock has been providing 15 mbps for customers in other sectors, such as cruise shipping.

    Having a fixed cost for satcom is of course re-assuring and easy to manage, but so is the opportunity to send larger amounts of data when you need to.

    You might want to switch on a faster sitcom bandwidth because you want to send a high definition video stream to onshore experts, perhaps during a complex phase of a drilling program. You might want more data if someone has an accident and onshore doctors need to make a diagnosis. Or you could use it for a short term, intense inspection program, or perhaps for sending seismic data.

    The additional bandwidth can be parcelled up, so a service company working on your rig could have 512 kbps for their exclusive use and pay for it directly with Harris CapRock, rather than queue up their data with everything else the rig needs to send, or accept the IT department's judgement of which data has priority.

    If they have their own satcom contract they don't need to talk to the oil company's IT department at all.

    'Today, the service company is forced to take with them their own communications package, which is expense on their part, they're not using it most of the time,' says Andrew Lucas, chief technology officer of
    Harris CapRock. 'They have to transport it, commission it, and take a field technician to help out.'

    It is not uncommon for oil and gas companies to send urgent data back to shore by helicopter, because it is the easiest way to do it, Mr Lucas says.

    The oil and gas company typically pays for the extra bandwidth on an hourly basis. The cost of bandwidth is higher when you buy by the hour than by the year (as when buying your standard bandwidth).

    'But the price is reasonable,' Mr Lucas says. 'If you do something short term, you know you're going to pay more for it than if you have it over many years. People will be quite comfortable with the value it epresents.' Harris CapRock is considering tools to allow bandwidth to be increased with an online tool, he says.

    When companies want more bandwidth, they inevitably want it now, not in a week's time, so fast decision making and activation is critical, Mr Lucas says.

    In larger oil and gas companies, it is still typically the CIO whomakes a decision about how much to spend on satcom bandwidth, Mr Lucas says.

    In smaller companies, the decision might be made by rig operations personnel. Sometimes the decision about how much to spend on satcom is made by people in charge of offshore operations, who then ask the IT department to send the formal instruction to the sitcom provider.
    http://www.digitalenergyjournal.com/.../76d59465.aspx

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    Thailand Helicopter Pilot Union: "We Don't Want Foreign Helicopter Pilots in Thailand"

    "The Civil Aviation department has revised some conditions and allowed foreign pilots to work in Thailand, which violates the regulation that reserves such work for locals. This has caused many local pilots to lose their jobs," Saran Siripoonphol, president of the union, said yesterday.

    The union has scheduled a meeting with labour officials next month to demand that the ministry revise some conditions for work permits for foreigners that were endorsed last year by the department under the Transport Ministry.

    The Civil Aviation Department allowed foreign pilots and co-pilots to work in four reserved jobs - offshore, mostly for oil platforms; sightseeing; balloons and parachutes; and executive travel.



    Thailand's helicopter pilot union wants expats out!

    About 50-70 foreign helicopter pilots are working in Thailand, or 30 per cent of the total. The government granted the privilege for foreign pilots to work in Thailand as part of its promotion of the aviation industry, while there was a pilot shortage years ago.

    The union fears that more foreigners will come to steal its members' jobs.

    In Malaysia, the government is moving against foreign pilots working in the same business, while Brazil is now hiring 100 per cent local pilots.

    Many operators in Thailand prefer to hire foreign pilots because they do not want to spend Bt5 billion on two years of training to produce one pilot.

    "Foreign captains usually earn double or about Bt400,000 per month compared with Bt200,000 for locals. However, operators like to use foreigners maybe because of the company's image and also the pilots' expertise," Saran said.

    According to the union, nine companies are operating in the helicopter business in Thailand - Thai Aviation Service, SFS, United Off-Shore, Air Advance, Bangkok Helicopter, Siam Land, Sri Chang Flying, Minibae and Helilux. More than half of the flight-deck crew at some companies are from abroad, mostly the United States, Canada, Japan, India and the Philippines.

    The union was established four years ago and now has about 30 members out of the 150 helicopter pilots in the country.

    In July, the union filed a complaint to the National Council for Peace and Order, then to the Transport Ministry, on this predicament, but neither inquiry has made any progress.

    The next target is the Labour Ministry.
    http://www.nationmultimedia.com/busi...-30248544.html

    Editorial Comment:
    The world's major companies and almost all the world's governments are pushing (at break-neck speed) the globalist agenda. Across the Americas, throughout Europe and even in parts of Africa and Asia the consolidation of regional bureaucracy and the harmonising of numerous government and industry standards takes place yet - we must concede to the sometimes 'lop-sided' demands of certain nation states. Brazil (for example) is not a nation in abject poverty or in anyway unable to cultivate indigenous pilot training and yet the ban on expatriates has been enforced for decades. Is it time that North America, Europe and Australia also place a prohibition on employing non-indigenous pilots. Perhaps we should take a poll from these areas on this one?

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  • Aviafora Newsdesk
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    New Immersion Suits for Canada

    Gaelle Halliday of Husky Energy has spoken about the introduction of a new immersion suit for offshore helicopter passengers during the Canadian-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board’s (CNLOPB) safety conference.

    “This is our Canadian suit. It is a suit designed to our standards and it’s the only one in the world which meets this standard” Halliday said.



    Pamela Connolly demonstrates a new offshore flight suit at the CNLOPB offshore safety conference

    New Canadian standards were recently implemented requiring changes to the safety suits. Compared to the suits previously used, Halliday said the new suits are made from light Gor-Tex material with boots made from neoprene. There are also better seals around the hands and neck to keep water out.

    As the standards changed, Halliday said it was an opportunity to use new available technologies to improve the suit and also get feedback from the offshore workers as to what they wanted.

    One of the recommendations from the Wells Inquiry following the crash of Cougar Flight 491 was for a better fitting suit which was more comfortable and which allowed for better movement. Along with new materials, straps and seals that make the suit better fitting, there are also 32 different sizes available.

    Halliday said the people in the industry who have tried the new suit have confirmed a big difference to theold suits. “Feedback has been very positive” he said.

    The new suits will be rolled out in 2015.
    http://www.thetelegram.com/News/Loca...t-and-safety/1

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    Bristow Delays S-76D Deliveries

    Bristow Group has delayed taking delivery of seven Sikorsky S-76D helicopters until its 2016 financial year, while three of the type already handed over to the operator are yet to enter service.

    Detailed in its second-quarter earnings released on 7 November, the aircraft are identified as medium helicopters scheduled for delivery in the period starting April 2015. Previous quarterly stock exchange filings had stated that the rotorcraft were due for handover in the current financial year.

    Although Bristow does not identify the helicopter type in question, elsewhere in the SEC document the operator says it is in the process of simplifying the composition of its fleet. Its goal is to reduce the fleet to five types over the next 10 years – the Airbus Helicopters EC225 and EC175, AgustaWestland AW189 and Sikorsky S-92 and S-76D.



    Bristow's S-76D's have yet to commence revenue-generating operations

    Of these, only the 5.3t S-76D is classed by Bristow as a medium-weight helicopter.

    A total of three S-76Ds were received during the final two quarters of the 2014 financial year, says Bristow, “but are not yet operating on revenue service”.

    In contrast, the firm received its first AW189 in April, and that helicopter began operating commercial flights from Norwich, UK in late July.

    It adds that a moderate increase in its earnings (EBITDAR) for the three months ended 30 September to $112 million, from $108 million a year earlier, was “partially offset by delays in certain new aircraft entering our fleet”. Bristow declines to elaborate on the reasons for the delay to service entry and the remaining deliveries.

    Development of the S-76D was delayed by around four years, with the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S-powered rotorcraft finally achieving certification in October 2012. Production of the S-76C++ had ceased in July that year.
    http://www.flightglobal.com/news/art...ies-405949/​

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    COHC Receives First S-92

    Sikorsky today announced that China's CITIC Offshore Helicopter Company (COHC) has accepted delivery of its first S-92 helicopter. Sikorsky announced the delivery at Airshow China in Zhuhai, China.

    In June of 2013, COHC and Sikorsky signed for two S-92 helicopters to be used for offshore oil and gas transportation missions. COHC is expected to receive delivery of the second S-92 helicopter in March 2015. With this delivery, Sikorsky is now the only original equipment manufacturer to be associated with all three major offshore oil providers in China.



    COHC have taken delivery of their first S-92

    "The S-92 helicopter is proven worldwide and certified to the latest FAA/JAA standards," said Audrey Brady, Director, S-92 Program for Sikorsky. "The S-92 will provide COHC with the modern aircraft capabilities needed to further develop its aviation and offshore oil industries."

    Established in 1983, COHC is a publicly traded company based in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, where it is the largest provider of offshore transport operations.

    "China continues to be a key commercial market for Sikorsky, and we look forward to continued business with COHC," said Brady.
    http://www.prnewswire.com/news-relea...275011.html​

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    Three New AW139's to Join Indonesian Offshore Market

    AgustaWestland is pleased to announce that contracts for three AW139 intermediate twin helicopters were signed with various Indonesian operators. These aircraft which will be used to support the offshore oil and gas industry in Indonesia will be delivered in 2015 and 2016.


    AgustaWestland has secured orders for three new AW139's for Indonesia's offshore market

    AgustaWestland Malaysia Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of AgustaWestland, continues to play a major role in the regions helicopter market expanding its presence and increasing its capabilities through a continued programme of investment. The Company’s headquarters, maintenance, support and training facilities are located at Kuala Lumpur's Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport. AgustaWestland Malaysia is a Malaysian DCA approved maintenance and repair organization.
    http://www.agustawestland.com/news/a...ket-new-orders

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    Helistar Sign for Two AW139's

    Colombia's Helistar have signed for two AW139 intermediate twin helicopters, marking the entrance of the type in the Latin American country and the first offshore AW139 in Spanish South America. These aircraft, whose delivery is expected in 2015, will be used to support the offshore OGP industry and will also have provisions to operate emergency medical service missions. The purchase agreements took place during Expodefensa 2014 in Bogotà.

    With this contract, Helistar will benefit from the outstanding performance and features of the AW139, the helicopter of choice in its weights class for the transport of oil & gas workers around the world, with approximately 300 units in service or on order. Over 800 AW139s have now been ordered worldwide by approximately 220 customers with more than 700 units already in service to perform a wide range of roles including search and rescue, emergency medical services, offshore transport, VIP/corporate transport, law enforcement, homeland security and utility.
    http://www.agustawestland.com/news/a...pters-colombia

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    CAPP Seeking Pathway Back to Night Flights

    The association for oil companies working off Newfoundland says they want more flexibility in the time that they are allowed to fly workers to the offshore.

    Jill Piccott of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers says the companies are considering logistics before seeking approval to resume night flights.

    She says they are working out details before asking offshore regulators to extend the flying day to clear occasional travel backlogs.

    Night flights were suspended in 2010 during a public inquiry into offshore helicopter safety.

    Lana Payne of Unifor says the union for offshore workers believes night flights are less safe and wants companies to add day trips instead.
    http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/bus...944702.html​

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    Second Vietnamese Oil Rig To Be Constructed

    A ceremony to launch the construction of Tam Dao 05 offshore oilrig, the second locally-manufactured jack-up rig, was held in the southern province of Ba Ria- Vung Tau on October 25.

    Invested by the Vietnam-Russia Oil and Gas Joint Venture (Vietsovpetro), Tam Dao 05 oilrig featuring the JU-2000E model of the American Friede and Goldman is expected to be completed within 32 months at a total cost of USD 230 million.



    The Tam Dao 03 which will be similar to the 05 now under construction

    The 120-metre jack-up rig weighs almost 18,000 tons when it is fully completed and can drill to a depth of 9 kilometers.

    According to Vietsovpetro Director General Tu Thanh Nghia, the company is currently renting four foreign oilrigs at a total cost of USD 220 million per year. This oil rig could help reduce the cost for the company, he added.

    Tam Dao 05 platform manufacturer, PetroVietnam Marine Shipyard JSC (PV Shipyard), built the first made-in-Vietnam jack-up rig, Tam Dao 03, weighing nearly 12,000 tons. Tam Dao 03 platform, including a helicopter deck, can drill as deep as 6 kilometers.

    In addition, PV Shipyard also successfully upgraded Tam Dao 02 oilrig for Vietsovpetro in October, 2014.
    http://www.saigon-gpdaily.com.vn/Bus.../10/111182/​

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    PHI Latest Video - 'What It Takes'

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    HeliOffshore Launched Today

    A new industry safety group 'HeliOffshore' (see post #38) has officially launched today. The organisation's founding members are:
    Avincis, Bristow, CHC, Era and PHI. With their support, and those of future members, the group seeks to promote best practice and address priority safety issues affecting offshore helicopter operations.

    The organisation's launch announcement reads as follows:

    Five major helicopter operators today officially announced a new industry association – HeliOffshore – for organisations with an interest in working together on safety in offshore helicopter transport. The new association was introduced at a launch event at its offices in London.

    Founded by five major helicopter operators, HeliOffshore will use cross-industry cooperation as a platform for enhancing the industry’s overall strong safety record sharing best practices, developing and applying advanced technology, and encouraging common global flight standards.

    Gretchen Haskins, who was selected as HeliOffshore’s chief executive last month, said the association is open to any group with a stake in offshore helicopter flight. She said that membership is expected to include customers of helicopter services, aircraft manufacturers, service providers, technology companies, staff and passenger organisations, and government and research institutions.

    Mrs. Haskins said: “HeliOffshore will work to achieve the highest levels of safety, in the air and on the ground. We want to deliver real safety benefits for the people who depend on the industry to get to and from their offshore workplaces, the crews who fly the helicopters and the teams who maintain them.”

    UK Aviation Minister Robert Goodwill joined representatives of HeliOffshore founding members – Avincis, Bristow Group, CHC Helicopter, Era and PHI Inc. – and several dozen others at today’s announcement. Afterward, the association conducted its inaugural safety workshop.

    HeliOffshore grew out of a joint initiative by helicopter operators that started more than a year ago, to further enhance offshore flight safety in the North Sea, as well as from work by the European Helicopter Operators Committee. While its origins are regional, HeliOffshore’s objectives are global.

    “The industry will continue to compete vigorously on commercial issues, but safety is not a competitive factor,” said Mrs. Haskins. “The best way to continually improve safety standards is through cooperation.”

    HeliOffshore initially will focus on six priority areas, all of which were discussed in today’s workshop:
    • Automation
    • Pilot monitoring
    • Stabilised approaches
    • Accident survivability
    • Application of health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS)
    • Information exchange
    Mrs. Haskins is an internationally recognized expert in human factors of safety, and has an extensive record of leadership in raising aviation safety performance by increasing partnership within the global aviation safety community.

    The former group director of the U.K. Civil Aviation Authority’s Safety Regulation Group and group director of safety at NATS, the main air-navigation service provider in the United Kingdom, Mrs. Haskins is a longtime champion of initiatives that improve frontline operational safety. She has also advised NATO (the North American Treaty Organisation) on human performance and critical safety systems.

    William E. Chiles, who recently retired as president and CEO of Bristow after distinguished service to the industry, is the first chairman of HeliOffshore’s board of directors, which includes James Drummond, Avincis; Bill Amelio, CHC; Chris Bradshaw, ERA, and Al Gonsoulin, PHI.

    About HeliOffshore

    HeliOffshore, formally the International Offshore Helicopter Association, is dedicated to constantly improving offshore helicopter safety around the world. HeliOffshore was founded by five leading helicopter services operators, and membership is open to any enterprise with a stake in offshore flight – and a determination to make it ever safer. HeliOffshore will develop, share and apply best practices; create and use advanced technology; and advocate for harmonized global flight standards.

    http://helioffshore.org/news/helicop...-helioffshore/

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    Offshore History

    Historical development of deep-water drilling: The Role of Shell


    http://www.offshore-mag.com/articles...hrough-p1.html

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    INAER Italia Awarded Cyprus Contract

    INAER Aviation Italia, a provider of offshore transportation, medical emergency and rescue services and fire-fighting, has been awarded a contract for the provision of offshore transportation and medevac services by ENI Cyprus.

    The two helicopters will transport passengers engaged in the exploration project in Cyprus onto the ‘Saipem 10000’ drillship which is equipped with a helipad of 27 meters diameter and a capability of 22 tons.



    INAER Italia will supply two aircraft in support of Saipem's drillship off the Cyprus coast

    The new service, which started last month, will also include the provision of ground services in cooperation with Skylink Services and a complete new hangar dedicated to the maintenance of the AW 139 local fleet.

    “INAER Aviation Italia is proud to start this new challenging project in Cyprus which continues its long-lasting operational relationship with ENI as well as growing its international footprint,” INAER said in a statement.

    Eni Cyprus, a subsidiary of Italy’s Eni, last month began drilling operation at the Block 9, on the Onasagoras prospect, hoping to strike natural gas.
    http://www.offshoreenergytoday.com/e...-in-cyprus/​

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    Fire on Hilcorp Baker Platform

    A team of safety personnel has boarded the scorched natural gas platform in Cook Inlet that caught fire Thursday morning to get a firsthand look at the damage.

    The fire at Hilcorp Alaska LLC’s Baker platform near Nikiski was contained by nightfall Thursday. Authorities on Friday said the fire that started in crew sleeping quarters didn’t cause any detectable pollution. Hilcorp shut off any gas production remotely after alarms sounded Thursday morning.

    Two response vessels at the platform overnight Thursday into Friday responded to several small flare-ups though the night, according to the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation.



    A fire tug sprays water on the smoking Baker gas-drilling platform in Cook Inlet off of Nikiski on Thursday, October 2

    A flyover Friday morning confirmed the fire was still contained and the living quarters where the fire began were a “total loss,” according to an update around noon from the command center staffed by Hilcorp, DEC and the U.S. Coast Guard.The Nikiski Fire Department, Cook Inlet Spill Prevention and Response Inc. and Offshore Marine Services are also involved in the platform fire response. A 2-mile maritime safety zone remained in effect Friday.

    The fire’s cause and the extent of the damage won’t be completely clear until investigators can board and get to work, said Hilcorp spokeswoman Lori Nelson.

    But responders took a step in that direction midafternoon Friday. A four-person team two from Hilcorp, two from Nikiski Fire Department, made it to the platform, a Coast Guard spokesman said.

    A Coast Guard Jay Hawk helicopter remained nearby in case the fire flared again or the platform proved unstable, Petty Officer 1st Class Shawn Eggert said. A fireboat remained on scene. The team is making sure the platform is at no risk of collapse, Eggert said.

    The team was also expected to inspect critical components and systems on the platform, according to the DEC.

    The platform’s gas production was minimal, and the shutdown that began Thursday morning won’t affect gas supplies to local utilities, Nelson said.
    http://www.adn.com/article/20141003/...age-assessment

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    Memorial Unveiled in Newfoundland, Canada

    A memorial commemorating the lives of those lost in two helicopter crashes, a Universal Helicopters crash which occurred on 13th March 1985 and Cougar 491 which crashed on 12 March 2009.

    The flowers started to be laid before the speeches were heard. They were white, symbols of loss, set down a few at a time beside 23 names cut into the stainless steel of a new sculpture beside Quidi Vidi Lake.

    There was no real reason for the family members of those named to wait before laying their flowers. So they didn’t. They had long ago waited enough — for news, for remains, for investigations and reports.



    The memorial which was unveiled on 29th September commemorating the lives of those lost in two helicopter crashes

    At least a half an hour before the start of a scheduled dedication ceremony for the new memorial, commemorating victims of helicopter crashes offshore Newfoundland and Labrador, Sean Wilson snapped a photo of the sculpture at its centre.

    The piece is cut with his father’s name: Jim Wilson. And he had flown in from British Columbia for the sight of it. “My Dad was on the flight in ’85,” he said, referring to a Universal Helicopters flight that went down in Placentia Bay on March 13, 1985.

    His parents were split at the time and father and son a country apart. “We hadn’t known each other well. I’d only been out the summer before ... and then he died that spring.”

    Before the March 12, 2009 crash of a second helicopter flight — Cougar Helicopters Flight 491 — Wilson could find little information on the crash that killed his father.

    After, as a result of efforts of other family members of people lost in the Universal flight, came news stories of the earlier crash and a Facebook page. Wilson made connections. He was contacted about the coming, permanent and tangible memorial.

    “They sent somebody out from the government to come and talk to me in B.C. Which was nice,” he said. He drove that provincial official around Vancouver. They discussed the memorial’s design. What it could be like. What it meant to him.

    “It feels good now that people actually remember and there is some sort of memorial that we can come and see,” he said, his voice catching for a moment. God willing, there won’t be any more names to add.”

    Marilyn Lythgoe’s brother, Bernard (Copper) Murphy, was killed in the 1985 crash. The lights at the base of the memorial created almost 30 years later shine on “Copper.” The name his sister noted, is how everyone knew him.


    He was credited with the introduction of Lythgoe and her husband, who had worked with him at the telephone company. “He was doing their mobile phones,” she said, of why her brother was on the ill-fated flight. “We didn’t even know he was out.” The family found out with a phone call, after the crash.

    “When someone’s taken from you so tragically ... those feelings never go away. You learn to live with your feelings, but they don’t go away. Even after all those years.”

    Lythgoe spoke with The Telegram after the speeches, but never mentioned them. They were as expected, with touching thoughts and prayers, with kind words from the premier. “It is my sincere hope that never again will we have to add new names to this memorial,” he said.

    In the crowd of about 200 was Copper Murphy’s eight-year-old granddaughter. “She is now the same age her mum was when she lost her dad,” Lythgoe said.

    The helicopter memorial in St. John’s was designed by Luben Boykov and Frederick Hann and will be maintained, long term, by the City of St. John’s.

    “It’s a place for acknowledgement of the accident,” said Karl Wright, whose cousin, Frank Kearney was killed in 1985. He stood with other Kearney cousins: Deanna O’Brien and Jane Critch. The latter, recalling Kearney’s quick smile, sees the memorial site as a place for reflection, on two tragedies. “Even though (his) body was found — thank God — it’s somewhere to go, to remember all of the victims.”
    http://www.thetelegram.com/News/Loca...ial-unveiled/1

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    New Offshore Safety Group

    Five of the world's biggest offshore helicopter operators are to join forces in a new safety initiative to share best practice throughout the industry.

    To be based in London, Heli Offshore's board will comprise executives from Avincis, Bristow Group, CHC Helicopter, ERA Group and PHI. It will be led by Gretchen Haskins, an expert in human factors and a former safety director and board member at the UK Civil Aviation Authority and air navigation service provider NATS.

    It build on the work that Avincis, Bristow and CHC have carried out as part of their Joint Operators Review into North Sea helicopter safety – an initiative set up in the wake of a fatal crash in August 2013 off the coast of Shetland.

    The formal launch of Heli Offshore will take place later this month, but other operators are already being canvassed over potential membership. The initiative will additionally take over work previously carried out by the European Helicopter Operators Committee.
    http://www.flightglobal.com/news/art...ush-404198/​

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