Blackpool-based aviation support specialists, HeliSpeed, has signed an agreement with BIH to support its search and rescue (SAR) operations in the Falkland Islands.

Through the agreement, global aviation business, HeliSpeed, will provide BIH with pilots from its HeliTrax database of over 1,500 highly-trained helicopter pilots and engineers, supporting operations in the Falkland Islands.

British International Helicopters is a British-owned helicopter firm and a trusted, long-term partner to military clients, with a track record of delivering consistently safe and reliable services in challenging environments.

“We’re so pleased to be working closely with BIH, supporting their operations in the Falkland Islands. At HeliSpeed, we can supply specialist contract pilots for both short and long-term global missions on over 83 types of helicopters. We now have over 1,500 highly-skilled pilots trained to work in extreme environments with mission specific capabilities.
Gemma Walker, Operations Director, HeliSpeed

HeliSpeed brings the expertise of pilots and operators closer together by matching the skills of experienced pilots with the needs and preferences of operators. They are experts in the diverse skill sets required for offshore, construction, utility, SAR, EMS, disaster relief and VIP missions. HeliSpeed can support ferry flights, aircraft repositioning, ground and flight tests, and training across every platform.

Our SAR service in the Falkland Islands is built on the highest standards of capability, responsiveness and precision. Key to this are the skills and behaviours of our people. We have chosen to engage with HeliSpeed because they offer similar responsiveness and precision which complements our existing in-house capabilities.
Alistair Riches, Chief Operating Officer, British International Helicopters

Editor note

British International Helicopters is a subcontractor to AAR Airlift Group, which is contracted to deliver turnkey SAR and Support Helicopter services to the British Forces South Atlantic Islands operations. Team AAR is providing Leonardo AW189 SAR helicopters, Sikorsky S-61N support helicopters, flight operations, maintenance, logistics, facilities support, and personnel management at the Mount Pleasant Complex in the Falkland Islands and the surrounding maritime region. The mission includes 24/7/365 all-weather SAR, helicopter emergency services, rescue hoist operations and passenger and cargo transfers.  The contract started on 1st April 2016.