October 6, 2025

Suriname Coastguard and Navy conduct first helicopter-enabled SAR training in partnership with OHI

Joint exercise ensured deck transfer readiness and establishes ongoing multi-agency training in support of national readiness and offshore safety.
Paramaribo, Suriname – 30 September 2025 — Omni Helicopters International (OHI) places national skills building at the heart of every region of its operations. Wherever the company works, it aims to take a local-first approach – partnering with local authorities, clients and suppliers to embed safe, sustainable aviation practices that strengthen in country capabilities and endure beyond any single contract. That commitment underpinned a new chapter of cooperation in Suriname, where OHI is currently supporting Chevron with offshore passenger transport and search and rescue (SAR) capabilities.
Upon its arrival in the country, OHI became the first helicopter company operating in Suriname to initiate liaison with the Coast Guard and Navy to introduce its SAR capabilities and explore training & collaboration opportunities. This led to OHI supporting Suriname’s Coast Guard and Navy in their first ever helicopter-enabled SAR and man-over-board (MOB) training.
This important exercise, held on 27 September, focused on real-world emergency coordination at sea and involved two Coast Guard vessels. OHI flew two sorties performing multiple deck transfers.
With the success of this groundbreaking engagement, OHI, the Coast Guard and the Navy agreed to continue joint training. The Navy will also provide a safety boat to enable wet hoist profiles, broadening the scope of future scenarios.
The collaboration strengthens national emergency preparedness and supports offshore operators, including OHI’s client Chevron, by clarifying coordination channels and ensuring access to Coast Guard and Navy assets during potential incidents.
“Omni is delighted to become the first helicopter operator in Suriname to demonstrate and exercise Search & Rescue capabilities in coordination with the Surinamese Coast Guard and Navy. 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,” said Greg Dagnall, Manager SAR Rescue Teams at OHI. “We’re committed to partnering with national agencies to enhance readiness and to support the offshore community’s safety needs.”
This engagement perfectly illustrates OHI’s commitment to pioneering services and knowledge transfer into the areas of its operations.
Looking ahead, OHI hopes this successful engagement will pave the way for sustained cooperation that is mutually beneficial, for national agencies, offshore stakeholders and the communities they serve.