Zhuhai copters aid in find of vast energy source

The Ministry of Land & Resources announced May 18 that China has achieved success in drilling for "flammable ice" in the Shenhu bed of the South China Sea. The operations are taking place from a floating production platform about 300km southeast of Hong Kong and being supported by helicopter flights from Zhuhai.

Properly known as methane hydrate, "flammable ice" consists of methane gas trapped in ice-like crystals. It produces a high amount of energy when burned and its byproducts are only dioxide and water.

The successful drilling is believed to hold strategic importance for the development of China's and indeed the world's new-energy sources. Commercial exploitation is predicted by 2030, reportedly held back by high costs, potential environmental concerns, and technological barriers.

Helicopter provides flight services for drill team.

Zhuhai-based China Southern Airlines General Aviation has conducted the undertaking over the past two decades. The company, a subsidiary of China Southern Airlines (CZ), was upgraded from the Zhuhai Helicopter branch that was established in 1980. With strong helicopter operation expertise and management experience, it was chosen to provide customized flights in support of the drilling explorations.

A special aircrew was given intensive English training involving check-in and boarding procedures. The training was aimed at better communication with the project's foreign experts.

Experts arrive on tarmac. [Photos courtesy southcn.com]

The helicopters usually took off in response to a call from the client, weather permitting, said a crew member.

Moreover, staff members traveled between bases in Zhuhai, Shenzhen, and the South China Sea to design a refueling system so that timely fuel supply and oil tank cleaning could ensure normal transport operations.