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PUBLIC ORDER
Government Flying Service
The Government Flying Service (GFS) is a full-time disciplined service, operating in accordance with civil aviation rules. It provides flying services in support of various government departments and agencies as well as a round-the-clock emergency air ambulance and search-and-rescue services.
The GFS currently operates a fleet of 13 aircraft: two twin-engined Beech Super King Airs, two Firefly Slingsby trainers, six Sikorsky S-76 helicopters and three Sikorsky S-70 Black Hawk helicopters. In 1995, more than 6 000 hours were flown and a total of 1 206 requests for emergency medical evacuation and rescue were received. Altogether, 168 search and rescue operations were carried out.
The Police Force and the Correctional Services Department made frequent use of GFS helicopters for operational and training purposes. The Super King Airs supported both Police and Customs in anti-smuggling operations and were also used extensively by the Lands Department for aerial surveys, photography and map- making.
During the year, the GFS flew about 15 600 government officers in the course of their duties; flying services were also provided to many overseas visitors to give an overview of the territory. One Royal Flight was carried out in 1995, when the GFS flew the Princess of Wales.
In the autumn of 1995, GFS helicopters assisted in over 19 fire-fighting operations, dropping more than 1 000 tonnes of water on inaccessible bush and forest fires. The pilot localisation scheme is proceeding steadily according to plan. Under the scheme, another four cadet pilots were recruited in 1995 bringing the total number to 25 local -pilots in various stages of training.