Will Transport More Than 1,000 Pipeline Segments Over Rugged Terrain

Erickson has contracted with Group Desarrollo Infaestructura, SA de CV (GDI) who is contracted with Transcanada Corporation’s Mexican Subsidiary, Transportadora de Gas del Noreste for a new rural infrastructure pipeline project that will bring clean-burning natural gas to businesses and citizens in Mexico. The agreement will guarantee the use of an S-64 E Aircrane to assist in the external load transport of more than 1,000 natural gas pipeline segments that will complete the 329 mile long Topolobampo Project. This project is a first for Erickson within the construction services market in Mexico.

The terrain surrounding the project is rugged and mountainous with minimal ground access. Transporting pipe segments by helicopter from a centralized staging area to multiple sites along the pipeline reduces transit time and avoids road construction. Current access roads are inaccessible for the equipment and pipe segments needed, and the helicopter allows for a more efficient project timeline. The Aircrane is an ecological and strategic solution for installation due to the lack of transportation infrastructure in this challenging location.

“This is a high priority project for the City of Los Mochis, to help build infrastructure in austere and rugged locations. We are providing an ecological solution when roadways aren’t available and the area is difficult to navigate by land. The Aircrane is very nimble in the air and our crews are a fast and affordable solution for rural infrastructure projects,” said Jeff Roberts, President and CEO.

The work will be completed early in Q2. The precision capability of the Aircrane, combined with the skill and experience of pilots and project managers, has led Erickson to be uniquely suited for this project.

FMI: www.ericksonaviation.com