Le Havre-Fécamp Pilot Station Enhances Marine Pilot Transfer with H135 Helicopter
An Upgrade for Safer and More Efficient Marine Operations
Airbus and Le Havre Port have agreed to acquire an H135 helicopter for the purpose of transferring marine pilots.
The Le Havre-Fécamp Pilot Station, a crucial player in ensuring the safe and efficient navigation of vessels along the Normandy coast, has made a significant stride in maritime safety and efficiency with the acquisition of an H135 helicopter.
A Rich History of Innovation
- Pilot Station Roots: The Le Havre-Fécamp pilot station has a rich maritime heritage, dating back to the management of vessel traffic along the treacherous Normandy coast.
- Adopting Aviation: In response to growing traffic and challenging sea conditions, the station turned to aerial transfers, making Le Havre the world's first port to introduce helicopter services for marine pilot transfer in 1976.
The H135: A Helicopter for the Modern Age
The H135, a light twin helicopter known for its advanced technologies and versatility, has been instrumental in enhancing the efficiency, safety, and reliability of marine pilot transfer missions.
Proven Effectiveness Worldwide
- Global Adoption: With over 1,400 H135 helicopters in service with more than 320 operators in 66 countries, the H135 has proven to be an effective solution for marine pilot transfer missions.
- Marine Pilot Transfer Missions: The H135 is used to transfer maritime pilots between vessels and the shore rapidly, ensuring safe navigation through often challenging coastal waters, channel approaches, and port areas.
Technological Advancements
The H135's cockpit is equipped with night vision goggle compatibility and a First Limit Indicator, which highlights engine instrument data for the pilot in one indicator, reducing pilot workload and increasing safety.
Synergies with neighbouring ports
The decision to sign for an H135 allows synergies with the ports of Dunkirk and Gironde, which also operate helicopters of the same type, further enhancing the region's maritime safety and efficiency.
A Decade of Support and Service
The agreement between Le Havre-Fécamp Pilot Station and Airbus Helicopters includes a 10-year support and service contract, ensuring the H135's operational readiness and long-term maintenance.
A New Era for Marine Operations
The H135's features and capabilities, such as its compact size, low vibration, and advanced avionics systems, make it ideal for close-quarters shipboard operations. The H135's effectiveness is attributed to Airbus Helicopters' Helionix avionics suite, which reduces pilot workload and increases safety during hoist operations.
Looking Forward
- Future Developments: The station will integrate enhanced navigation aids, night vision, and better weather detection systems to expand operational windows.
- Sustainability Efforts: Exploration of hybrid or electric propulsion systems to reduce environmental footprint.
- Expanded Role: Potential expansion to other coastal regions and support for emergency medical transfers or maritime SAR (Search and Rescue) missions.
The Le Havre-Fécamp Pilot Station's commitment to modernising its marine pilot transfer services with the H135 represents a significant step forward in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of maritime operations in the region.
The Le Havre-Fécamp Pilot Station's strategic move to acquire an H135 helicopter signifies a potential expansion of its services beyond traditional marine operations, tapping into the aerospace industry and technology for enhancing efficiency and safety. Leveraging the H135's advanced finance mechanisms, such as the 10-year support and service contract with Airbus Helicopters, the station aims to foster synergies with neighboring ports, consequently boosting the region's overall financial prospects in the marine, technology, and aerospace sectors.
