OHI conducts heli SAR training with Suriname Coast Guard

OHI has conducted joint SAR exercises with the Suriname Coast Guard. (Photocredit: OHI).

Omni Helicopters International (OHI) has conducted the first helicopter-enabled search and rescue (SAR) training in partnership with Suriname’s Coast Guard and Navy. The joint exercise was designed to ensure deck transfer readiness and establish multi-agency training in support of national readiness and offshore safety.

Held on September 27th, the training focused on real-world emergency coordination at sea and involved two Coast Guard vessels. OHI flew two sorties performing multiple deck transfers.

The operator is delighted to become the first helicopter operator in Suriname to demonstrate and exercise SAR capabilities in coordination with the Surinamese Coast Guard and Navy, said Greg Dagnall, manager SAR Rescue Teams at OHI. “Omni considers safety a moral imperative and we would not commence operations in any new country without a multi-agency exercise such as this,” he added.

“This first helicopter-enabled SAR exercise demonstrates the immeasurable value of routine, realistic joint training. We’re committed to partnering with national agencies to enhance readiness and to support the offshore community’s safety needs,” said Dagnall.

The collaboration strengthens national emergency preparedness and supports offshore operators, including OHI’s client Chevron, said the operator. This is achieved by clarifying coordination channels and ensuring access to Coast Guard and Navy assets during potential incidents. OHI is supporting Chevron in the country with offshore passenger transport and SAR capabilities.

After the success of the first exercise, OHI, the Coast Guard and the Navy agreed to continue joint training. The Navy also agreed to provide a safety boat to enable wet hoist profiles, broadening the capabilities of SAR missions.

In recent years OHI launched OHI Unmanned, a specialist division focusing on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) services, and Revo, a premium advanced air mobility (AAM) solution provider.

Meanwhile, in July OHI appointed Roberto Farnese as the company’s executive vice president Fleet. Farnese is responsible for devising Omni’s new fleet strategy to align with the operator’s efficiency, sustainability and diversification objectives.