Omni Helicopters has officially selected six Guyanese for the roles of search and rescue (SAR) rear crew with additional aviation security responsibilities, according to a January 15 press update. The selected team members, who have already commenced training, are set to play a crucial role in supporting SAR helicopter operations, particularly in emergencies that necessitate life-saving interventions and delivering critical support to individuals in distress or imminent danger.
The recruitment process, which spanned several months, involved a rigorous selection procedure that was advertised in local media. The roles and skills required for the position were clearly outlined, attracting a diverse pool of applicants. After a comprehensive evaluation, Curt Mendonca, Somant Heeralall, Daniel Yorris, Ishwar Parbhu, Kevin Sawh, and Johnelle Ogle, the first female member, were chosen. These individuals will form Guyana’s inaugural civilian helicopter SAR team.
The training program for recruits is multifaceted. Initially, they will be trained as rescue swimmers and, eventually, as winch operators. Their responsibilities will include acting as observers during SAR missions and participating in missions to safely rescue individuals from various challenging environments, including offshore installations, vessels, water, and jungle terrain.
Duncan Moore, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Offshore and Onshore International at Omni Helicopters International, responsible for the group’s operation in Guyana said the company is proud to be able to support national talent and to help develop the aviation sector in Guyana. “Supporting our communities is something we take seriously and is part of the Omni Way. We are very confident of these new members’ ability to develop into a world class SAR Rear Crew team,” he said.
For the recruitment process, candidates were evaluated on their character, physical capabilities, and technical proficiency in operating helicopter equipment. Following this, shortlisted candidates attended a detailed presentation about the role, which included video footage of training and missions, and a tour of the SAR aircraft. The third stage of the process involved tests of water skills and capabilities at the 3t EnerMech Offshore Training Centre in Georgetown, including Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET), with an emphasis on communication skills. The final assessment involved observing actual SAR crew training during an offshore flight to ensure candidates were comfortable in a helicopter with open doors and ongoing tasks.
The initial training phase has begun, focusing on aviation security and familiarization with Omni Helicopters’ operations at Ogle Airport. The candidates are also undergoing daily swim training at the Guyana National Aquatic Centre to build confidence and stamina for SAR training. The comprehensive SAR rear crew training program will intensify this month with a trip to an offshore training center in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, before returning to Guyana for continued on-the-job training.
It is anticipated that Guyana’s first SAR Rear Crew will be fully operational by mid-2024.
