cats out of the bag

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/humber/7082053.stm

Just suprised it's taken so long to come out.

Well, it's a good thing then that they are all going to be replaced by S-92s, eh?

lets all hold our breath for that one.. on the count of 3,

1,2.......3!

Check out the thread in Mil Aircrew, SAR Privatisation.

Just did............Some people getting their knickers in a twist. We all know SAR H is happening and the S92/AW139 are upto date excellent a/c. So whats the problem?

"S92/AW139 are up to date and excellent aircraft"
Just what do you base that statement on?? The publicity brochure or your companies spin on the new contract?
One type is only just into SAR, last month and not yet proven, and the other one is still just a dream!
I would love to see both types become first class replacements for the type/s they are due to replace, and that will take some doing, but to say they are excellent is jumping the gun somewhat!

Really? Been in a S61 lately. But like i said they are both excellent a/c. Have a look at their world wide useage not just the UK.

How long before ...................................?

............Crab comes along?

They are. And as it stands, neither aircraft is a proven SAR platform.

Just because they are new and shiny doesn't mean to say that they are currently 'fit for purpose'. Only time will tell.

Ok point taken............Lets wait and see!

"Been in an S61 lately"
Well, actually, yes!! More than one come to that. Have you?? An SAR one that is!

I doubt that the age of the aircraft is the issue.

Spares parts availability and maintenance are the areas of concern.

Current hours for S61s, some over 40,000, for Super Pumas approaching 30,000+.

Well maintained helicopters go on for ever.

Should change your name to "Old Spoilsport"

I fly a S61 with Carson Blades and typed (CAA/FAA) in the aircraft. Any questions?

Oh ...........did someone say something about SAR aircraft......I'd hate to disappoint by not showing up on the thread

Cracking Jon

Took longer than I expected!

Ditto!!!!!

Thats kind of the same view I have about the sea king, also were not the seakings a few years back replaced with mark 8's? I am sure the ones at Chivenor were, and if that is the case they would still be very young airframes in terms of hours etc? Correct me if I am wrong.