Sikorsky SAR S-92® Helicopter Tallies 150+ Rescues in North Sea & North Atlantic
Sikorsky initially developed the uniquely capable helicopter for over-water search and rescue for one of the most demanding and challenging environments ever, the North Sea and North Atlantic, and introduced the dedicated SAR S-92 helicopter in March 2007.
“The SAR S-92 helicopter follows in the tradition of Sikorsky’s history of search and rescue efforts, both military and civil. After more than 100,000 flight hours by the S-92 helicopter fleet, the aircraft has demonstrated itself to be a safe, reliable and cost-efficient platform, ideally suited for long-range transport missions in all weather,” said Marc Poland, Sikorsky Vice President, Commercial Programs.
The SAR S-92 helicopters have supported rescues from mountains and cliffs, and provided assistance to vessels in trouble to rescuing crews. One such incident led to the rescue of 14 fishermen from the vessel Spinningdale in February this year, in which the vessel ran aground at St. Kilda. The vessel was lashed by high winds and heavy seas as it sat stranded on rocky, cliff-facing terrain until the SAR S-92 helicopter crew reached it to retrieve the men amid gusting 70-knot winds.
“CHC has had success with Sikorsky helicopters and the St. Kilda rescue was strong evidence of the capabilities of the SAR S-92 helicopter,” said Sylvain Allard, President and CEO of CHC. “Similarly, the other rescues conducted with this aircraft have been in locations that are extreme; when called upon, the aircraft and crews have responded with exemplary performance and professionalism, and this helicopter has been a valuable tool for those missions.”
Ian McLuskie, Search and Rescue Manager with CHC, said, ”The waters covered by the northern MCA bases feature a diverse range of commercial maritime activities, ranging from fishing and large-scale cargo movements to offshore oil and gas production. The new aircraft were brought into operation to take the service into a new technology-led era, and have already proved their capabilities in providing an effective service to those who need it.”
The S-92 is the first helicopter in the world certified to the latest U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and European Joint airworthiness safety standards. The S-92 features a Rotor Ice Protection System (RIPS), which allows the aircraft to operate in known icing conditions. RIPS has been certified by both North American and European aviation authorities and is available on S-92 military variants as well as commercial aircraft. EASA certification was issued in April for an IAFS equipped aircraft, which is currently in commercial operation.
Just love the BULL......
Crab how many rescues have you boys done...?