Marine Transfer

Description

The working harbour of Port Kembla was historically the beating heart of industry in the Illawarra and now with the increased use of the port, activity is steadily making a comeback to the heights of the coal and steel industry 20 or 30 years ago.

In more recent years the port has diversified its trade base to include general and break bulk cargoes, containers and motor vehicle imports. It is also the principal grain export port for producers in Southern and South-Western NSW.

With this increase in marine activity comes the increased requirement for ship to shore transfer. Touchdown Helicopters maintains a fleet of helicopters which are available to service requests from shipping agents as well as shipping, surveying and supply companies, at short notice.

For personnel transfer, CASA Regulations require that outside of auto-rotative distance from land, helicopters must have floats installed. Our Robinson R44, capable of seating up to 3 passengers, is equipped with pop-out floats.

For transfer of food parcels, maps or charts or any other kind of cargo, both versions of our AS350 Squirrel helicopters as well our Robinson R44 helicopter are available for hire.

• The R44 can cater for a maximum of approximately 150kg’s of cargo stowed in the cabin space dependent on package size restrictions.
• The AS350B2 Squirrel is able to carry an external load of approximately 750kg’s in a cargo net slung underneath the helicopter.
• The AS350B3 Squirrel is able to carry an external load of approximately 1200kg’s in a cargo net slung underneath the helicopter.

Touchdown Helicopters is flexible in its operation and is able to cater for most client requests. Not only can we meet the vessel at anchorage but we are also able to rendezvous with the vessel on route. The majority of transfers we have undertaken have been out to anchorage off the coast of Wollongong  but more frquently we are being requested to fly down the coast and then out to sea to intercept a vessel under sail.