Helicopter operator CHC said it believed it was “prudent” to examine technical data and interim measures “first-hand” before considering resumption of H225 flights for North Sea operations.
The move comes after it was revealed by the European Aviation Safety Authority (EASA) it would be removing a suspension on flights following a ban in June.
The decision came into force after 13 people were killed in an accident after a flight crashed on its way back from Statoil’s Gullfaks B platform to Flesland Airport in April.
Both the UK and Norway Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said a ban on the helicopter model wold remain despite the decision of the EASA.
The helicopters will be able to fly but will face “stringent” requirements in order to do so.
A spokesman for CHC said:“We acknowledge the new Airworthiness Directive issued by EASA today. We remain fully engaged with the AIBN and Airbus Helicopters in the ongoing investigation as they work to identify the definitive root cause of the accident in April which resulted in the tragic loss of two of our colleagues and eleven passengers.
“While CHC welcomes the assurances provided by Airbus Helicopters, we believe it is prudent to thoroughly examine the technical data and the interim measures first-hand before considering resumption of H225 flying.
“CHC will continue to work with all key stakeholders in order to fully understand the latest information from the regulatory authorities and Airbus Helicopters, and will continue to communicate regularly and transparently with our customers and our employees. We also remain in close contact with our fellow operators through HeliOffshore with a continuing emphasis on ensuring safety and compliance are maintained to the highest standards.
“We respect the decision by the Norwegian and UK CAAs to maintain their operational directives restricting operation of the H225 (and AS332L2) fleet. CHC will continue to comply fully at all times with these national regulatory requirements.”
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