IMPROVING THE HELICOPTER SEARCH AND RESCUE MODEL | LATIN AMERICA

Swimmers from left to right: Daniel Cervera, Sandy Duran, Dennis Navarro and Omar Serrano

A RESCUE CREW MEMBER DESCENDS OVER OPEN WATER

HELICOPTERS ALLOW SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAMS TO QUICKLY REACH AND TRANSPORT PASSENGERS FROM SOME OF THE MOST INACCESSIBLE AND HARSH ENVIRONMENTS.

When it comes to assisting rescuers in remote and challenging environments, there’s no better tool for the job than helicopters. When it’s a situation where every second counts, helicopters allow Search and Rescue (SAR) teams to quickly reach and transport passengers from some of the most inaccessible and harsh environments. Helicopter rescues are a pivotal capability of all offshore emergency response plans, and PHI has partnered with Heliservicio and Shell to establish a solid foundation for helicopter Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in the southern Gulf of Mexico.

In collaboration with key industry stakeholders, PHI and the SAR training company Total Response Solutions (TRS) are pioneering a new, multi-phased developmental SAR training model for regions that currently do not have dedicated SAR helicopter assets. The new program uses a tiered approach, taking an ab initio (no experience) rescue swimmer (RS) candidate and coaching them toward becoming qualified, safe and effective Rescue Crew members, with some progression to Hoist Operator (HO).

Through extensive planning and investment with our partners, we are assisting in building a comprehensive SAR program that is designed to be both an obtainable and sustainable development model for aircrew and technical positions including Rescue Swimmers and Hoist Operators. The program also includes a detailed support and maintenance program customized for SAR operations.

The SAR training includes all skillsets required to safely and effectively support offshore platform and marine operations including land, water, decks and small vessel hoisting scenarios. Working closely with industry partners and the experts at TRS, the program was developed not only to be compliant with industry best practices but to also exceed published AFAC, FAA and EASA standards for hoisting operations. The introduction of the new SAR program provides a sustainable funnel for the specialized training needed in these areas to extend the reach and number of people who can receive life-saving service when every second counts.

The SAR training program is ongoing for the newly-qualified SAR personnel and is supported by oversight, guidance and mentorship from our partners at Total Response Solutions (TRS). By importing and leveraging the use of highly skilled and experienced SAR operators, this program facilitates and fosters a talent pipeline for future home-grown rescue crew professionals. And, in addition, Heliservicio developed an improvement cycle to continue expanding operational capabilities and enhancing professional development.

The SAR program is a significant investment for the people of Mexico and represents not only an improved emergency response for the region but also provides new and meaningful career opportunities for local young people.

At PHI, we strive to be a catalyst for change by investing in our core values of safe, efficient, quality, service. Together with our partners, we are challenging industry standards and redefining the SAR model with innovation backed by experience.

This improved program is a pivotal moment for the SAR industry and the communities in which we operate, and we’re excited and proud to be a part of the future of SAR. As a company, we continue to look for new and innovative ways to do business and better serve our people, customers and the communities where we work and live.

SWIMMERS DENNIS NAVARRO AND SANDY DURAN ON THE DECK.

DENNIS NAVARRO

HOBBIES: SURFING, SCUBA DIVING, CLIMBING AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Previous Experience: Bachelor’s degree in physical fitness and sport, university of Guadalajara, Mexico. 4 years as a professor in the university of Guadalajara, teaching Aquatic Rescue. Dennis is also Rescue diver qualified, paramedic and has been a life-guard instructor for the past 7 years.

SANDY DURAN

HOBBIES: SWIMMING, TRAVELING AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Previous Experience: Medical Technician, studied at Guadalajara University. Sandy is also a Lifeguard Instructor.