Guyana Defence Force helicopter search limited to coast by single-engine safety rules

Guyana Defence Force helicopter search limited to coast by single-engine safety rules

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) began deploying aviation assets within minutes of receiving a distress signal linked to the MV Barima, a Commission of Inquiry heard in recent testimony. Lieutenant Colonel Anson Weekes, testifying regarding the military response to the incident, outlined the immediate logistical and operational steps taken by the Air Corps in the early hours of July 19, 2026. According to Lt Col Weekes, he was awakened by a teleph…

Lone working GDF helicopter during MV Barima tragedy cannot fly offshore

Last Updated on Friday, 16 October 2026, 19:23 by Written By Denis Chabrol A US$5.9 million brand new helicopter that was acquired by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) almost one year ago was the lone serviceable chopper when the MV Barima ferry sank three months ago, but could not fly offshore because of limitations, senior […]

Single-engine GDF chopper barred from reaching MV Barima disaster site

…restricted to coastal searches, regulations ruled out offshore operations (Kaieteur News) – The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the MV Barima tragedy heard testimony on Thursday detailing how safety regulations and mechanical limitations prevented a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) helicopter from reaching the immediate search area during the crucial early hours following the vessel’s distress call. […] The post Single-engine GDF chopper barred from…

GDF deployed aviation resources within minutes of receiving distress alerts from MV Barima - COI hears

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) moved to mobilise aviation resources shortly after receiving an emergency alert concerning the MV Barima incident. A military helicopter was deployed to transport personnel and conduct aerial reconnaissance in search of possible survivors. Testifying before the Commission of Inquiry, Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Anson Weekes said he received a telephone […] The post GDF deployed aviation resources within minutes of …