Still Grounded Despite EASA Proposal For Return To Service

While EASA has released guidance clearing Super Puma helicopters for operation following an accident in April, the U.K. CAA and Norwegian officials say that the aircraft are to remain grounded.

The CAA released a statement saying that it has confirmed that its existing restriction, prohibiting all commercial flying of Airbus Helicopters' Super Puma EC225LP and AS332L2 aircraft by UK operators, is to remain in place.

The Super Puma helicopter accident in Norway on Friday 29 April is still under investigation by the Norwegian authorities and the CAA says it remains in close contact with all offshore helicopter operators to continue to assess the situation.

"We are united in our approach with the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority. Both agencies now await further information from the accident investigation before considering any future action," the agency said in a statement.

"The safety of those who travel on offshore helicopter flights is a key priority. That's why in 2014 the Civil Aviation Authority launched a comprehensive review of offshore helicopter flying, resulting in significant changes in safety that were welcomed by everyone involved.

"We will continue to work with the helicopter operators, the offshore industries, international regulators, unions and pilot representatives to enhance offshore safety standards still further.

The Offshore Post reports that Airbus has noted the lifting of the suspension by EASA, and says it will provide assistance to its customers to get their aircraft flying again when it is appropriate.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.caa.co.uk