Helicopter inspections could leave Icelandic Coast Guard with one aircraft

The Icelandic Coast Guard could have only one helicopter available for emergency calls while its aircraft undergo major inspections, mbl.is reported.

One of the Coast Guard’s three helicopters entered a C-check, the most extensive inspection, early this year. Airbus Helicopters estimates the work will take eight to 12 months or longer, depending on the aircraft’s condition.

Höskuldur Ólafsson, the Coast Guard’s technical director, said the aim is to complete the first inspection in November or early December, then begin work on the next helicopter immediately.

The Coast Guard usually has one helicopter undergoing major maintenance and tries to keep the other two airworthy. But that is not realistic during such extensive scheduled work. The other aircraft may also be unavailable at times because of faults or smaller inspections, leaving just one ready for use.

Ólafsson said this situation occurs regularly and cannot be avoided without more helicopters. He said renting an aircraft would be a matter for the government because of the cost, adding that the Coast Guard would welcome such a move.

He said the Coast Guard was in regular contact with the ministry, which was aware of the situation. There had been strong discussion earlier this year about adding a fourth helicopter, but there had been no further developments. The long-term goal is to have at least four helicopters, with one based outside the capital area.