Meet the experts behind Safeguard Helidecks
Our team is made up of seasoned professionals with diverse backgrounds, each bringing invaluable experience in maritime aviation. With a shared passion for safety and precision, our team works tirelessly to ensure that every helicopter operation at sea meets the highest standards.
Find out more about the individuals at the core of our operations and how their unique experiences contribute to the exceptional service we provide…
Chris Wood
Chris is our Operations Manager and has over 24 years of maritime aviation experience. Having served in the Royal Navy as Merlin helicopter aircrew, Chris made the transition from the military to Safeguard Helidecks in 2016. He has worked on numerous multi-spot flight decks including HMS Ocean, RFA Argus, HNLMS Rotterdam and HMS Illustrious.
As an experienced Helidecks Certification Officer and in his role as Operations Manager, Chris liaises with Captains, Owner Representatives, Management Companies and Shipyards to ensure that aviation is conducted in the safest possible manner.
Chris has worked with numerous Superyachts and their crew to ensure they are operating helicopters in the safest possible manner. He has grown his reputation within the industry by being driven and enthusiastic to get the work done as efficiently as possible.
James Frean
James is a Senior Aviation Consultant and Inspector, with over 25 years experience in helicopter operations.
James served 10 years as a Commando Helicopter Pilot in the Royal Navy, flying from many of the UK’s aviation capable ships, as well as working with other navies around the world, flying in varied environments including, mountain, arctic, desert and jungle.
In 2006, James moved to Fort Lauderdale and started working in the helicopter-yacht sector – supporting owners looking to improve the safety and efficiency of their onboard helicopter operations.
James has been a member of many of the Helideck Working Groups as a Subject Matter Expert for the MCA/REG and Marshall Islands and has been at the forefront of the developing the regulations and standards as the number of yachts with helidecks has continued to grow. He has personally worked with a wide variety of yachts, both private and fully commercial, providing risk management advice and support, from design consultation through to delivering crew training.
As a helideck inspector, he brings a wealth of experience and has built a great reputation for his professional and knowledgeable approach.
Chris Heale
Chris is our Lead Aviation Consultant and Inspector, with over 13 years of experience in maritime aviation.
Prior to joining Safeguard Helidecks, Chris was an Aircraft Handler in the Royal Navy where he gained extensive experience in managing aviation operations on Aircraft Carriers and Amphibious Ships, both for the United Kingdom and the American Navy.
Gary Ross
Gary is a Senior Safety Consultant with 30 years of maritime aviation experience across both military and civilian sectors, working in a range of challenging environments around the world.
Gary is well-known for providing clients with the guidance and delivery of regulatory policy, safety management systems in aviation, aviation facility design compliance, project management, quality assurance, equipment procurement, and the provision of MCA approved training for aviation capable yachts.
Want to know how we can help support your next project?
Get in touch with our team…
To find out more about the range of services we offer and how we can help with your helideck certification requirements, please get in touch. Our team will be happy to answer any questions and give advice on the steps you need to take to ensure the safety of your superyacht helideck. Contact us here.
