Australian Helicopters has been awarded an extension to continue its partnership with the Government of South Australia in operating the State Rescue Helicopter Service.

Police Minister Tony Piccolo said the three-year extension will ensure the SRHS continues to operate and support the critical public safety needs of the South Australia community.

Our helicopter service is shared by the State’s ambulance, police and fire services and is vital in responding to incidents and emergencies, Mr Piccolo said.

This includes aero-medical retrievals from rural hospitals and accident scenes, search and rescue missions, aerial bushfire fighting command, bushfire intelligence gathering, police surveillance and its response to criminal activities.

The extension also includes the provision of a replacement helicopter with significantly improved safety, range, payload and cabin space available for critical retrieval missions.

The remaining two helicopters will also be upgraded, to ensure their continuing compliance with general and aviation safety standards.

The three aircraft operated on behalf of the SRHS fly more than 1,000 missions and 1,500 flying hours per year from Australian Helicopters’ purpose-built facility at Adelaide Airport. A new infrared imaging system will also be introduced, improving operational capability to the fleet for mission-critical applications.

Managing Director of Australian Helicopters John Boag said the extension of the contract recognised the confidence placed in the company’s ability to deliver helicopter operations to meet the needs of the SRHS.

Australian Helicopters has successfully delivered a reliable rescue helicopter operation for the South Australian community for over ten years and we are extremely pleased to be able to continue our work here, Mr Boag said.

Australian Helicopters operates 365 days a year in all types of weather at any time of the day or night, including a team of 24 locally based employees including highly trained pilots, aircrew and engineers to deliver a complete package of operational support. The Government has also agreed to extend the existing agreement with the Motor Accident Commission for its sponsorship of the SRHS.