CHC do Brasil, part of CHC Helicopter, has been named the number one provider for Operational Excellence in Offshore Transportation in Brazil by state-owned energy company Petrobras. The PEOTRAM award is an annual initiative by Petrobras to encourage and recognise superior operational and maintenance standards within the Brazilian offshore aviation sector.

This year, the rigorous evaluation process included seven competing companies. Over a five day audit, three specialised auditors scrutinised operational practices based on the IOGP's 690 international standards, a leading benchmark for offshore aviation safety and operational integrity. CHC Brazil was awarded first place after scoring the highest marks in a range of operational excellence categories.

Gilson Caputo, operations director for CHC Latin America, says: "CHC's unwavering commitment to operational excellence is at the core of our daily operations. This recognition from Petrobras is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who strive daily to ensure the safety and satisfaction of our customers."

CHC Brazil leverages both local expertise and its global network to provide unmatched services in the region, integrating technological advancements and data-led insights to drive forward safety performance and efficiency gains. The company operates a comprehensive safety management system and utilises a global flight data management programme, which collects and analyses flight data to enhance training and operational procedures continuously.

Furthermore, CHC Brazil employs electronic flight bags for its technical crews and pilots, enhancing operational accuracy and enabling rapid, global updates of crucial flight and maintenance data. This integration of advanced digital tools supports CHC's commitment to safety and operational efficiency.

"In less than a year, we have tripled our number of contracts with Petrobras, reflecting the significant growth in offshore operations in Brazil," says Lícia Rocha, sales director for CHC Latin America. "CHC has grown its fleet in the region, with eight helicopters added recently and two more expected soon; representing an increase of 200 per cent by mid-2024 when compared with the end of 2022."

Caputo adds: "We are proud to operate in unison with our global colleague at CHC, sharing insights and best practices to enhance our service delivery in Brazil. Our deep regional knowledge and extensive experience enable us to meet customer needs swiftly and securely, elevating the overall customer experience."

Over the past few weeks, Brazil's Rio Garde do Sul has experienced record-breaking floods, devastating local communities and forcing 24,000 people to leave their homes. During this crisis, CHC's Brazilian team took swift action to deliver vital emergency aid.

Across ten days, team members voluntarily flew 11 missions, coordinated by Petrobras, to provide essential supplies. The missions transported a total of 23 tonnes of medicines, food, drinking water, blankets and hospital supplies to the frontline emergency response teams.

Tom Burke, chief executive officer, who was in Brazil with the team, says: "I am incredibly proud of our team's commitment and willingness to lend a helping hand. Our thoughts remain with the people and communities affected by the flooding, and we will continue to work closely with Petrobras to provide support wherever it is needed."

Gilson Caputo, operation director in Brazil, adds: "The fact we have been able to play a small part in alleviating suffering fills me with immense pride. It wouldn't have been possible without our team members volunteering their time and going above and beyond to do what's right. Thank you to everyone who has been able to make this happen, both in Brazil and across the organisation globally."

Although the immediate demand for emergency air support has decreased, CHC Brazil and Petrobras continue to actively monitor the situation.