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Super Puma EC 225 returns to service after ditchings | Super Puma EC 225 returns to service after ditchings |
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The Super Puma model grounded after two ditchings has taken to the skies again with offshore workers, BBC Scotland has learned. | The Super Puma model grounded after two ditchings has taken to the skies again with offshore workers, BBC Scotland has learned. |
Super Puma EC 225s were grounded in the wake of two incidents off Aberdeen and Shetland last year. | Super Puma EC 225s were grounded in the wake of two incidents off Aberdeen and Shetland last year. |
They were given approval to fly again last month, and returned to service from Aberdeen Airport on Wednesday morning. | They were given approval to fly again last month, and returned to service from Aberdeen Airport on Wednesday morning. |
The CHC-operated flight departed at about 10:15 to an offshore platform. | The CHC-operated flight departed at about 10:15 to an offshore platform. |
A CHC spokesperson said: "Today, CHC Helicopter returned the Eurocopter EC 225 aircraft to full commercial service in Aberdeen. | |
"The return to service comes after months of investigating, testing, modifying, and collaborating - by Eurocopter, helicopter operators, oil-and-gas companies, regulators, and groups representing pilots, offshore workers and others. | |
"The flight included CHC pilot Will Hanekom, who is meeting with offshore workers. He is there to answer any questions about the process for the EC 225s safe return to full commercial service - from the thorough investigation to the safety barriers now in place." | |
The spokesperson added: "From the start, CHC has been committed to resuming overwater flights with EC 225s only when it was safe to do so. | |
"Today's flights will be followed by more over the coming days and weeks." | |
In May last year, all 14 people on board a Super Puma were rescued when the helicopter came down off the coast of Aberdeen during a flight to an oil rig. | In May last year, all 14 people on board a Super Puma were rescued when the helicopter came down off the coast of Aberdeen during a flight to an oil rig. |
In October, all 19 people on board were rescued safely after the Super Puma put down in the sea off Shetland. | In October, all 19 people on board were rescued safely after the Super Puma put down in the sea off Shetland. |