There has been an increase in applications by foreign companies for the operation of helicopters offshore Guyana, according to Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field.
He was at the time responding to questions at a press conference relating to the growing interest by persons in the local aviation sector.
Field noted, however, that though they have seen an increase in applications from operators from outside Guyana when it comes to the oil industry, these operators are applying to GCAA for foreign air operators’ certificates and these are mainly to operate helicopters offshore.
“As we speak there are about two of three companies who are in discussions with us right now,” he said before declining to mention any names.
Likening the increase to that of a tsunami, Field explained that Guyanese can only expect more operations as the country prepares for first oil.
“Bristow Helicopters, as we know, are operating right now assisting ExxonMobil, are bringing their sixth helicopter which should be here very shortly. Within the next couple of months, there may be three more so there will certainly be an increase in large scale helicopters doing offshore operations and this is a part of the tsunami that I speak about because as the oil industry expands, you will find more and more operators coming in to do work for the offshore industry,” he told members of the media.
Field also took time to comment on the recent procurement of a Beechcraft by Trans Guyana Airways, saying that the acquisition will certainly help to develop the local aviation sector.
“I was told yesterday (Monday) and I did sign the papers earlier, that on Saturday Trans Guyana acquired a third Beech 99 and I am sure that that acquisition had something to do with the oil industry. As you know, they move some Exxon workers to Trinidad and Barbados, so this third Beech 99 will certainly augur well for the industry,” the Director said. “You will find more of this happening, so the tsunami has begun and I’m sure by time first oil or when CGX starts to drill there will be a lot more applications coming in,” he added.
