Talon Helicopters Ltd. has been awarded a seven-year contract with a three-year option by the Pacific Pilotage Authority to provide helicopter hoisting services for marine pilot transfers in British Columbia’s southern coastal region.
Under the contract, which begins immediately, Talon will provide an Airbus AS365N3 Dauphin helicopter equipped with a Goodrich hoist for 24 hours/365 days per year marine pilot hoist transfers out of its base at Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
Numerous Transport Canada supplemental type certificates (STCs) were developed by Talon for this contract, including night vision compatible interior and exterior lighting and a complete hoist personnel carrying device system (PCDS) specifically designed for offshore operations.
“The Airbus AS365N3 Dauphin is a safe, cost-effective, proven platform for offshore hoisting, and the incredible support we have received from Airbus Helicopters provides us with the confidence we need to provide the Pacific Pilotage Authority with 100 percent aircraft availability for this contract,” said Peter Murray, president, Talon Helicopters Ltd.
“The Pacific Pilotage Authority is exceptionally pleased to have contracted with Talon Helicopters,” said John Wilson, CEO, Pacific Pilotage Authority.
“Throughout our rigorous selection process, the safety of marine pilots and the ships they navigate through our waters, along with the protection of the marine environment, were our top priorities. Talon will transfer B.C. coast pilots by air to and from vessels outbound to sea, adding to an already robust marine safety regime in our coastal waters. With their experience hoisting people by helicopter, proven flight safety record in B.C., and outstanding approach to operational safety and risk management, we look forward to working with Talon as we move into this new phase of our operations.”
This press release was prepared and distributed by Talon Helicopters.
