Hovertravel’s new craft is progressing through the sea trials phase of its development and has this week successfully landed at Hovertravel’s Southsea terminal, as well as passing a full evacuation test.
Last Friday, in order to test the emergency systems, a full evacuation trial was carried out. 80 passengers, volunteers from both Hovertravel & Griffon Hoverwork, were on board. The trial tested the crew announcements, on board safety signage, safety video and lifesaving equipment. The evacuation took just over eight minutes which is actually half the time to meet the regulatory requirements. The Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) observed the evacuation and approved all procedures.
Hovertravel’s new craft have four digital screens which will show the safety video on every departure. This video covers all aspects of the procedures to follow in the event of an emergency as required by the Maritime Coastguard Agency and is believed to be one of the first ever such videos to include sign language instructions.
For the first time, the seats were fitted for the evacuation trial. Hovertravel has searched the world to source MCA regulatory, comfortable, durable and stylish seats for our new craft with the best option, to fit this high level of requirements, being manufactured in Perth, Australia.
Another trial this week was the landing trial at the Southsea Hoverpad. This took place on Wednesday in Force Seven winds, allowing the test pilot to develop the best technique for landing at Southsea and also evaluate the craft’s skirt in these conditions. This trial proved very successful with several landings and departures completed in challenging weather.
Next week the last phase of the manufacturer’s trials is due to take place and on completion of this, the Hovertravel training programme for pilots, engineers and crew will start.
