In the case of the NL SAR contract CHC shot them selves in the foot on the ESPD phase. Put in the wrong paperwork or missed something.
In the case of Ireland they are the only piece of the puzzle that can be pushed under the bus after the Rescue 116 crash final report. The customer and the authority are not for changing so that only leaves the operator.
Bristow won because they are not CHC.
they are offering the 189. The requirements are public so any right minded SAR crew know the difference between an S92 and a 189.
17 in the back of a 189 against 22/23 in the back of a 92. Cabin size , ceiling height and equipment ergonomics in a 92 beat a 189 .
IRCG went with the 189 because it’s cheaper to operate but not a rugged or versatile as a 92. The IRCG aviation advisor who help shape the requirements and select the winner has to stand over its selection. If rumours are true a degree in ergonomics trumps SAR crew operator experience . I’m sure there will be some interesting conversations during transition acceptance with the new Bristow crews
Finally also what if CHC was cheaper?
Last edited by Franks Town; 8th Aug 2023 at 18:13.