CHC Helicopter has opened a new search and rescue base in Dublin, Ireland. The facility was officially opened on 18 October by minister for transport, tourism and sport Shane Ross and CHC president and CEO Karl Fessenden.

Says Fessenden: “We have been providing helicopter services in Ireland for nearly 20 years, and this opening marks an important milestone for SAR and CHC in Ireland. The improvements that have been made to the base will give our crews access to the best possible facilities to ensure that they can continue to deliver their vital, life-saving work. The size and scale of this facility, which includes additional office space, enhanced living accommodations and a new, modern hangar for engineering, reflects our continued commitment to providing SAR to the people of Ireland.

“I would also like to pay tribute to the outstanding work that our staff at CHC Ireland, both past and present, have carried out over many decades. This facility will ensure that their legacy is continued.”

Minister Ross adds: “This new facility at Dublin is testament to CHC’s commitment to delivering the best possible service for the coast guard and the people who count on that service in Ireland. The entire CHC team, from support staff, engineers, rear crew and pilots, deserve our thanks and should be proud of their continued contribution to delivering this vital service.”

CHC flies upwards of 1,000 SAR missions a year in Ireland. “Our missions save hundreds of people," states ops manager Pat Pearse. "Our crews are dedicated to ensuring that anyone who finds themselves in a position where air rescue is needed has a chance of survival, and these enhancements to the base will enable the team to continue to deliver a world class service that we can continue to be proud of.”