Geoffersincornwall,
I can't speak for the other operators, but mine includes helicopter underwater egress training (HUET) in the initial training curriculum for new hires. Refresher training is required at five year intervals, though some customers may require it more frequently. To my knowledge there is no FAA requirement yet for this training.
My company issues each pilot a constant wear Switlik lifevest with 406MHz EPIRB.
Emergency underwater breathing systems are not issued, but those individuals who choose to purchase one may receive training on it during HUET.
In-house simulators are in extensive use at both Air Logistics and PHI. These are not motion based, but do have full visuals. We generally use them for annual recurrent training. They're quite realistic and very economical, but the FAA requires that several specific maneuvers be performed on the actual aircraft. There are sims for both medium and small ships. Additionally, both companies contract with Flight Safety for certain other training.
Single-engine aircraft are still very much in use in the GoM. However, of late most companies have become somewhat more restrictive as to where and when they are permitted to operate. I'm afraid I can't hazard a guess at the percentages, but I have seen a trend toward more twins recently.
As stated above, a PIC position will generally require a minimum of 1000-1500 hours PIC in helicopters.
-Stan-
Last edited by slgrossman; 6th April 2006 at 23:08.