Satsuma, inadequate previous civSAR contracts have resulted in years of guarded answers from contractor personnel that in turn have taken their toll on relations between some MR and civSAR. We are moving into a new era with a proper tech spec and reformed regulatory framework. There is also more clarity about where GAP SAR North stands during the next two years while still under the old regime.
With you on the rear crew. Yesterday I spoke up for rear crew status and will follow that up. Bristow have some influence there but really the DfT and the CAA need to get in there and specify and regulate this area in a more intelligent way.