Suriname Coast Guard and Navy hold first helicopter SAR exercise with OHI

The Suriname Coast Guard and Navy have completed their first helicopter-enabled search and rescue (SAR) training exercise, conducted in partnership with Omni Helicopters International (OHI). The joint exercise, held on 27 September, focused on real-world emergency coordination at sea and marked a major step in strengthening national offshore safety and readiness.

OHI, which currently supports Chevron with offshore passenger transport and SAR services, initiated the collaboration shortly after beginning operations in Suriname. It became the first helicopter operator in the country to engage directly with the Coast Guard and Navy to develop joint SAR and man-overboard (MOB) training.

During the exercise, two Coast Guard vessels participated while OHI flew two sorties performing multiple deck transfers. The successful operation demonstrated the value of interagency coordination and established the foundation for continued joint exercises. The Navy has committed to providing a safety boat for future wet hoist profiles, expanding the range of training scenarios.

The collaboration enhances national emergency preparedness and ensures clear coordination channels between offshore operators and maritime authorities. It also supports the broader offshore community, including Chevron, by improving response capabilities during potential incidents.

“Omni is delighted to become the first helicopter operator in Suriname to demonstrate and exercise search and rescue capabilities in coordination with the Surinamese Coast Guard and Navy,” said Greg Dagnall, Manager, SAR Rescue Teams at OHI. “Omni considers safety a moral imperative and we would not commence operations in any new country without a multi-agency exercise such as this. This first helicopter-enabled SAR exercise demonstrates the immeasurable value of routine, realistic joint training.”

OHI said it planned to continue working with Suriname’s maritime authorities to strengthen national skills and enhance offshore safety through ongoing, multi-agency training.

Omni Helicopters recently announced the successful graduation of its first Guyanese class of SAR rear crew.