Omni Helicopters International (OHI) and its subsidiary Omni Helicopters Guyana have celebrated a landmark in Guyana’s aviation history with the completion of the first training phase by the country’s inaugural ab-initio helicopter pilots, Somant Heeralall and Yadram Ramcharran.

The achievement was recognised during a ceremony at Kesi Adele Adams Memorial Heliport in Ogle. Both pilots trained intensively for over a year at a US flight school and have earned commercial helicopter licences with Instrument Ratings. They will now advance to offshore helicopter training, becoming Guyana’s first offshore oil and gas helicopter pilots.

The event also highlighted the progress of Guyanese engineering apprentices and search and rescue rear crew, reflecting Omni Helicopters Guyana’s commitment to building local expertise. Since beginning operations in 2023, OHI has increased its Guyanese workforce to 65% of its team.

“This is an important milestone not only for Omni but also for Guyana's aviation community. We are proud to welcome Somant and Yadram as the nation's first offshore pilots,” says Duncan Moore, chief safety officer at Omni Helicopters International. “Their dedication and passion will inspire a new generation of Guyanese professionals, strengthening our vision of creating opportunities and building a strong national aviation team.”