Choppers fly again after safety checks |02 April 2012

The suspension enabled the company to review safety procedures and introduce new aircraft to its operational fleet.  An interim fleet of two Bell JetRangers will enter daytime service initially, including new aircraft S7-NMK – the latest model of the four-passenger aircraft type. 

Steps are immediately underway to replace these at the earliest moment with two larger single-engine aircraft, capable of conveying higher payloads of passengers and baggage.  They will also have rapid re-configuration capability for medical evacuation of stretcher casualties.

The SCAA concluded, following inspections of HSL’s aircraft and maintenance facility, that the highest international safety standards were being upheld by the company.  The award of an EASA Part 145 maintenance safety certification – the highest accolade in the industry – is expected to be issued shortly, endorsing the quality of HSL’s engineering performance.

“Safety is our goal, first and always,” said Capt Matt Hayes, chief executive of Helicopter Seychelles.  “The SCAA is satisfied that our aircraft, our pilots, our engineers, our operational support team and maintenance facility comply fully with their rigorous requirements.  They don’t judge us lightly, and rightly so.
 
“We are moving forward with a new fleet, upgrading our offer, investing in ourselves, to provide Seychelles with a world class and fairly-priced helicopter service,” he said.

“The company apologises unreservedly to its clients for the short interruption to its operational commitments.  It wishes especially to thank local island resorts and destination management companies, many of whom have expressed their support for and continued confidence in Helicopter Seychelles during recent days.”

Helicopter Seychelles was formed in 1992 and has operated Bell JetRanger aircraft throughout its operational history.