Conducting Helicopter Operations in Northern Labrador and the Arctic

While helicopters are used for a myriad of purposes in rural and urban environments, their true potential can be measured by the support they can offer in extreme and remote areas. This paper describes a Northern Canadian operator, Universal Helicopters Newfoundland and Labrador LP, the equipment used, the tasks performed, the working conditions and the risks and challenges faced . The principal areas of operation include the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Ungava Peninsula and Canada's high and eastern Arctic. The company operates 19 light and intermediate helicopters in one of the most challenging environments in the world. The aircraft are equipped with operational equipment and accessories for operation in temperature extremes which test not only the machinery but the crews that fly and maintain them. A Safety Management System is in place to properly identify and manage the unique risks of operating in the north as well as logistical support that recognizes associated added costs. The presence of multiple aircraft and their adjacency to remote communities often results in requests from authorities to assist in Search and Rescue operations. Despite challenges from wildlife, weather, topography and a long distance supply and communications chains, operators are able to conduct helicopter operations to support scientific research and natural resource development.