Chevron-Texaco in Africa
 

Anybody know what the current status of the Chevron operation in Angola is? I was in the running for a mechanic position with them last spring but didn't get it and was just asked for an updated resume last month. I haven't heard back from them since and I'm finding it rather frustrating not being able to find out what's going on. Anybody with some info want to fill me in? Are they up and running, are the guys working there happy, ect?

In a rather bizzare coincidence, I flew a man on a tour of the Grand Canyon today who works in the oil industry in Angola. He stated that their helicopters had been provided by PHI, but were now provided by the oil co. (I can't remember who he worked for it may well have been chevron.) His assessment was that the were trying to maintain the fleet with too few trained professionals mechanics. It sounded like many trainee level guys wrenching under the supervision of a few mechanics. We didn't really get into to many details as I had duties to perform (sandwiches to hand out, sparkling wine (can't spell champaingnee (and it's from calif.)) to pour, etc...)

(sorry about the nested parenthesis (I should never have given up programming computers (there more acceptable there!)))

So there you have it, not very well informed bits of probably incorrectly heard information from halfway around the world. I just couldn't pass up the coincidence, and it sounds like wherever this gentleman worked could use some proper mechanics, so maybe you've got a chance... Good luck.

I think you will find that Chevron is having problems with the government certifying their aircraft. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

The contract in Cabinda went to Sunair with 407s and 109s.

ATN

Oil & gas in Africa & ME
 

Anybody having a view the tenders in the Oil & Gas in this countries (Angola, Cameroen, etc....) Any body contacts in the Oil & Gas?

Still wondering
 

So is Sunair running the operation there now? From my conversations with them last spring they were planning to have the first aircraft online a year ago last June/July. Two Dash 8's, two 430's and a 427 from what I was told. My contact there was Kenny Huete, the DOM I believe, but he's a hard guy to get a hold of. Anybody have any contacts over there with some first hand knowledge???

At my knowledge, I have had the occasion to cross some of thieir 427 and 430...(nice painting ! ) off shore of Cabinda.The operating company is named "Heli-Malongo"
The 2 Dash 8 regulary shuttle between Cabinda and Luanda.
I believe they are still expecting a bunch of helicopters to reach the planned number.

South Africa Training
 

hi,
having read through some threads im still somewhat unclear on training in south africa so here's the question/s i have:
Currently passed out my ppl (h) in south africa , now starting training towards Cpl(h) , is it worth me doing the ground school exams in south africa if i have to do them all again in the UK.
Secondly i will have approx 180/200 hours when i return to the uk , will the hours count towards cpl, and flight instructor courses.
What i don't want to do is spend time and money in S.Africa and then find i have to do it all over again in the Uk
Hope it makes sense, thanks in anticipation!

Similar pain
 

Zeefly,
Having been through a similar painful decision process (Australian CPL(H) converted to JAA-CPL(H)) I can offer the following comment:

• Your hours will count towards the requirement in the UK (its a good idea to ensure your log book is stamped by the school where you're training - it may even be a requirement, so no doubt others will comment)
• In order to obtain you SA CPL(H) you'll need to do your SA exams - if you want a JAA CPL(H) you'll need to do the JAR exams - sorry, its a painful but rewarding process
• JAA-CPL(H) min 185 hours before licence issue (unless on an integrated course) - only "training as required" for a foreign ICAO licence - no requirement to do a 30hr modular course (but a prudent move if you can afford the expense)
• All licensing requirements in LASORS http://www.caa.co.uk/docs/33/LASORS_06_WEB.pdf - check it out to ensure you meet min requirements for licence issue (eg x-country, night, instrument etc)
• JAA-FI(H) min 250 hours to start a 30 hour course with groundschool also

There is loads of "devil in the detail" so the above is just a brief synopsis of the requirements, which should be sufficient to at least help you start to make decisions.
Overriding advice: take the licence in the country you wish to / can work (and can afford !)
Best of luck and keep at it.
FO

reply
 

Many Thanks, may has well continue has they are offering me a mountain course (R44) and game capture has part of the Cpl (h) package! and i will return and probably join with Cabair and see where it takes me..... thanks again

Training in South Africa
 

Hi, Going to the US and completing my Faa PPL(H) was not has the website made out hidden charges!!
Anyway after some re-search I found South Africa (Durban) to be the "Cost Effective" way and its CAA, Flying from 115 Quid an Hour!!!! Taught me game capture, mountain flying etc etc.

Training in South Africa
 

I have noticed a earlier thread enquiring where best to train.....we'll having done both countries i would most definatley say South Africa they are soon to be JAA Approved, 115 Quid an Hour! and accomodation and living expenses are very, very cheap (5* accomodation 25 quid a night).

Be aware hidden cost in american training schools, they're marketing experts

Are they likely to be doing IR's any time soon?

Most training schools over here do IRs. 40 hrs of which 20 can be in a sim. Some places do it in an R22 which would work out at around 115 - 150 pounds per hour depending on where you go. Sim time much cheaper, between 25 - 60 pounds per hour (Rand is sliding again - 14.5 to the pound now).

Er, good for you?

Based on where the SA Rand is going ,Joyrider may have a point. Today now the Rand is 14.55/Pound and 7.67/Dollar not to bad.
As with everything you have to watch out for those who "see you coming". No upfront money etc. Go to the African Aviation forum and there are always gripes about getting ripped off. It happens all over the world. Just keep your eyes open and get some advice outside the box.
SA is a beautiful place, consider it.

There is already another thread on this.......Mods should join them up..

Zeefly, good you had fun. Game Capture should help in the UK, you can Dart some of the Loonie Lefties.

Joined. Good idea Bert.

Agree with you about the beauty of South Africa but, judging by the number of posts zeefly has tried to post today plugging one school, it's not game he's trying to capture. ;)

ok
 

fair-play heliport!!:D

Wait, am I understanding correctly? There's a school in SA that has (or is close to getting) (UK)CAA approval to conduct JAR training (a la HAI)? If someone knows of such a school, please post (or PM) a link...