Brunei's Local News - Brudirect.com

Bandar Seri Begawan - After the historic accomplishment of becoming the recipient of the prestigious Flight International Aerospace Industry Award in 1994 for its unblemished track record of 27 years of helicopter operations in support of offshore oil and gas activities without lost time injury, the BSP Aviation Department is unfolding another great chapter through the five-year Anduki Modernisation Programe.

The programme is a series of integrated projects and activities stretching from 2005 to 2010 to boost BSP's efforts in modernising aviation operations through a series of improvements to the facilities, infrastructure and services at the Anduki Aerodrome.

BSP recognised a replacement aircraft as a priority in its efforts to improve its services by acquiring the new Sikorsky S-92A Helicopter to substitute the nearly 40year-old Sikorsky S-61N fleet.

The BSP Aviation Department (SAV) - recognised as one of the best offshore helicopter operations in the world - has also been actively developing

the skills of its Bruneian personnel, where 80 per cent represents local employees.

Through the modernisation programme, a new administration building was constructed in 2005 and completed in July 2007 to provide work and rest areas for maintenance and flight operations personnel.

In line with the BSP Aviation Department's aim of adopting 'best practice' in all areas, the Anduki FATO or full airport lighting and signage and improved entry and exit access, conforming with the Brunei Aviation Regulations.

Additionally, the commissioning of Instrument Approach Procedures will ensure that the combined improvements will allow day and night operations in good or bad weather to fully maximise the capabilities of the new S-92A helicopters.

The procedures are the first of its kind in Brunei and are also the first for the S-92A anywhere in the world.

To ensure Anduki Aerodrome meets national and international regulations and standards, new security measures are being introduced including full delineation of the landside/airside barrier accomplished with an access control system and fending.

For the first time, fencing will extend around the circumference of Anduki Aerodrome.

To complement the new security measures, x-ray equipment are also being installed at the principal points of the department's offshore, which include the Anduki Aerodrome, Muara Port and the SMR Wharf in Kuala Belait.

Passenger screening will be further supplemented by walk-through metal detectors and hand-held metal-detectors in addition to the existing hand baggage searches.

CCTV camera with recordings retained for review and pulsed sensors are installed around the security restricted areas of the hangars as part of its security upgrade project running from this year to next year.

The Passenger Terminal has also been refurbished. Additionally, the department is continuing to improve the safety standards by introducing a new protective uniform and lifejacket as well as a Search and Rescue radio beacon for pilots in the event of an emergency.

The airport hangar has also been refurbished and Hanger B will be substantially rebuilt in 2009 to improve the efficiency of aircraft maintenance with first class facilities which include offices, meeting rooms, parts storage and rest areas.

The BSP Aviation department aspires to continue to improve its services to remain as the offshore helicopter operation that defines aviation excellence. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin