Civil Aviation Authority – Safety review of offshore public transport helicopter operations in support of the exploitation of oil and gas (CAP 1145)

Abstract

The safety of those who rely on offshore helicopter flights is the Civil Aviation Authority’s (CAA) absolute priority. The steps detailed in this report will result in significant improvements in safety for those flying to and from offshore sites in the UK and potentially worldwide. We will monitor and report publicly on the progress of all actions and recommendations.

Offshore helicopter services provide a vital link to ensure the viability of the UK’s oil and gas industry. They transfer the majority of the workforce to and from offshore installations in an open sea environment that is both challenging and hazardous.

Recent accidents have understandably given rise to serious concerns, particularly with offshore workers who rely so heavily on these helicopter flights. We therefore initiated this review in September 2013 to examine thoroughly the risks and hazards of operating in the North Sea and consider how these can be managed more effectively.