Estimated reading time 3 minutes, 12 seconds.
Heli-One has won a contract to upgrade and modify two Eurocopter AS332L1s that will enable Lufttransport AS to perform all-weather search-and-rescue (AWSAR) missions in the Arctic.
In 2014 Lufttransport becomes responsible for operating the most northern AWSAR operation in the world, based in Svalbard, Norway. At 78 degrees north, the around-the-clock winter darkness is extreme. The dependence upon this service for such a large operating area is extremely high, and the all-weather capability of the AS332L1 aircraft is a critical element to mission success.
Hans Arne Jensen, director of Business Development for Lufttransport, cited Heli-One’s engineering prowess and SAR expertise as key elements of the winning bid for the contract.
“The two AS332L1s are undergoing an essential modification program in order to comply with our requirements, and Heli-One engineering has provided us with access to solutions derived from their unique knowledge in modification of helicopters used for SAR operations to the most dangerous and challenging areas on earth,” said Mr Jensen.
“Heli-One’s extensive experience engineering and installing modifications for AWSAR mission profiles will increase our aircraft performance, availability and safety in one of the most remote locations on the globe.”
Heli-One is a part of CHC Helicopter which operates the largest network of SAR services in the world. Lufttransport is headquartered in Tromso, Norway, and performs EMS, SAR, charter and crew-change missions in Norway.
The modified AS332L1s are scheduled to begin operations in the spring of 2014 from Svalbard, midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole.
The Heli-One contract comprises approximately 25 upgrades and modifications, with state-of-the-art installations including:
• EuroNav moving map systems
• New Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) camera systems with operator’s console
• Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders
• Goodrich dual hoists, and
• Searchlight and control systems.
“Our customers continuously seek to fly farther, with greater capability, and to always bring their passengers and crew home safely,” said Lars Landsnes, Vice President, Operations, Heli-One. “This contract further validates our reputation for leading design and engineering capability to help them do just that.”
Heli-One’s European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part 21 subpart J certification as a design organisation enables the company to approve most supplemental type certificates (STCs) in-house, resulting in faster turnaround times for complex upgrade programs.
