Operators in Norway have begun measurements of passengers bound for offshore installations ahead of the expiry of a 2019 derogation on 1 March 2024.
While the EASA regulation was implemented by the Norwegian CAA in 2019, a derogation was granted to offshore support operators, including Bristow and CHC, which allowed them to delay applications. Like their counterparts flying from UK heliports (where the rule has been in place since April of 2015), passengers deemed as extra broad XBR (those with an across the shoulders measurement of 56cm or more) will be required to wear an armband and sit only in designated XBR seats, those with immediate access to larger emergency exits.
For Norwegian operations, S-92s have a number of XBR options thanks to the type’s three large emergency exits. However, the Super Pumas operated in support of the Valhall oil field are also affected. Even so, the expectation based on UK operational experience is that a shortage of seats for XBR passengers is unlikely.
Photo CHC Helicopter
