TRANSNET National Ports Authority’s (TNPA) two new port helicopters, manufactured by Italian global high-tech company, Leonardo, went into service on Saturday, 31 August at the Ports of Durban and Richards Bay.
The craft will service the KwaZulu-Natal ports where they will transfer marine pilots onto and off visiting ships for vessels to be guided in safely and efficiently.
Acting chief executive, Nozipho Mdawe, said the two new helicopters would help TNPA to improve service offering to customers and improve the overall reliability of its marine service at the Ports of Durban and Richards Bay.
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“As TNPA, we are delighted to have reached this milestone and to be responding to industry calls for a more efficient and reliable marine pilot service in our Ports of Durban and Richards Bay. The AgustaWestland (AW 109SP) helicopters, valued at approximately R250 million in total, will replace helicopters that are reaching the end of their lifecycle. The new craft will bring benefits for our customers and improve the global competitiveness of our ports, resulting in economic benefits to the region.”
The Ports of Durban and Richards Bay are presently the only ports in TNPA’s complementary port system which use helicopters to transfer marine pilots. The two new hecliopters are equipped with a Harbour Pilot Shuttle Kit, which features a hoist that enables this distinctive operation, as well as several other installations unique to Transnet’s aircraft.
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