Bond, Bristow and CHC shortlisted for UK Long SAR contracts

Bond Offshore, Bristow and CHC Scotia have been named as the operators to be shortlisted for the UK's Long SAR helicopter contracts, it has emerged.

The contracts, worth between £2-3 billion, will see SAR helicopter provision being provided by civilian helicopter operators flying a new generation of modern helicopters replacing the Sea Kings currently being flown by the RAF and the Royal Navy.

In a statement issued by the Department for Transport (DfT) on 27 July, the three companies have been shortlisted to participate in the ‘competitive dialogue stage’. There are three lots available to bid on – the first two offering contractors a mix of bases to operate from while the third lot is a combined package covering the entire 10 bases.

Lot 1 will deliver the service at, or in the vicinity of, Sumburgh, Stornoway, Culdrose, Leconfield and Valley with a minimum rescue capacity per aircraft of eight casualties/survivors (two of which are capable of being stretchered) and a minimum radius of action of 200nm (250nm at Stornoway).

The second package will deliver the service at/or in the vicinity of Lee-on-the-Solent, Chivenor, Prestwick, Lossiemouth and Wattisham with a minimum rescue capacity per aircraft of four casualties/survivors (two of which are capable of being stretchered).

The shortlist means the end of NHV's bid, while the Osprey Consortium of British International Helicopters, Babcock and Era Helicopters dropped out of the competition in May.

The DfT says it plans to announce the successful bidders for the lots in early 2013.


Source: By the Shephard News Team in London - 30 July 2012

Photo: The Royal Navy 771. Rescue Sqn SeaKing Long SAR Helicopter (Photo by Shephard)

(30.07.2012)