New flight helmets for rescue chopper

The Trust Tairāwhiti Eastland Rescue Helicopter crews have received new flight helmets, thanks to a $12,000 grant from the New Zealand Community Trust. Chopper pilot Tony Brice (left) and crewman Max Neustroski are pictured with the new head gear. Picture supplied

New Zealand Community Trust has awarded Gisborne’s Eastland Helicopter Rescue Trust a grant of $12,000 to purchase two Alpha Eagle Dual Visor Flight Helmets.

The specialist headgear helps equip the Trust Tairāwhiti Eastland Rescue Helicopter that undertakes hundreds of flights a year to offer emergency care and transport to those who suffer medical or trauma events, and to assist in search and rescue missions.

The teams of pilots, critical care flight paramedics and crewmen operate 24/7 flying to all corners of the region, especially remote areas where access is difficult, services are limited, and the need is great.

They need the right gear to do that.

To ensure they are not sent off-kilter by heavy night-vision goggles, the $6000 helmets are custom-fitted for each team member and incorporate visors, communications, and a noise-cancelling feature to prevent pilot fatigue.

Though they can be repurposed for new crew, they cannot safely be used beyond their lifespan of about 10 years.

“These helmets are standard across all Search and Rescue Service  bases and we need to have top-spec equipment so our team can operate at its best,” said EHRT treasurer Ian Parker.

“Their purchase is an ongoing expense for EHRT so this support from the NZ Community Trust is a big help in ensuring te Tairāwhiti is served by a helicopter rescue service at the top of its game.”