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The
Cormorant has been chosen as Canada's new Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopter.
The first of these aircraft entered squadron service in 2002 at 19 Wing
Comox, and by spring of 2004, the entire fleet of 15 Cormorants became
fully operational.
 It has three powerful engines, long-range capability and a large cargo area.
Its ice protection system, allowing it to operate in continuous icing conditions,
and its ability to withstand high winds, make it ideal for Canada's demanding
geography and climate.
Offering
ample and versatile cabin space with rear-ramp access, the Cormorant can carry12
stretchers or a load of 5,000 kg. The Cormorant routinely conducts rescues
that would have been impossible for it's predecessor, the CH-113 Labrador.
In December, 2002, a Cormorant conducted a 1600 km round-trip medevac of an
injured Norwegian sailor in winds of up to 130 km/hr, refuelling twice at the
Hibernia oil production platform. In January, 2003 another Cormorant crew rescued
all 16 members of the crew of the Finnish cargo ship “Camilla” in
a single flight.
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