Originally Posted by
chevvron
S92s getting a bit 'tired'. Better get some Merlins out of storage (or even Pumas).
Most S-92 will be gone at the end of the year since only three are required for this contract. Heavy, expensive, noise/vibration issues, out of production, never to be upgraded, difficult spares supply, and its size not required for the vast majority of jobs, mean that for this data evidenced new contract it is of limited use.
Originally Posted by
chevvron
The present problems in Kent don't help (Lydd not accepting SAR aircraft) but Riveroak have, I understand, agreed to let them use Manston; can't say 're-open' 'cos there is already a heli operation there.
The Sheikh was happy to push a million pounds a year into keeping Lydd going but his sons are not so keen and having recruited an experience airport MD, the whole scenario there has changed.