In our final Meet the Team feature, we speak with Gary Ross – Senior Safety Consultant across the Aviation and High Hazard Explosives divisions of Safeguard Engineering, of which Safeguard Helidecks is a specialist division.
Gary brings over 30 years of experience in the maritime aviation sector, spanning both military and civilian roles. Since joining the Safeguard Helidecks team, he has provided invaluable expertise in design consultancy and certification, helping clients achieve safe, compliant and efficient helideck operations.
In his interview, Gary reflects on what he enjoys most about the job and how he sees superyacht aviation evolving in the years ahead…
What do you enjoy most about working at Safeguard Helidecks?
“Although I’ve only recently joined the Safeguard Helidecks team, I’ve worked in this industry for many years. What stands out to me is working with colleagues and customers who truly understand the importance of meeting the high standards that maritime aviation demands – standards that ultimately ensure the safety and benefit of everyone involved.”
Where’s the most interesting or memorable place your work has taken you?
“Being part of the customers representative team during the design and build phase of any superyacht is always a real privilege. I thoroughly enjoy working alongside the crew and designs teams to help deliver designs that enable safe and efficient flying operations – it’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to getting those details right.”
How did you first get involved in the superyacht aviation industry?
“Early in my career, I specialised as an engines and airframe mechanic on Sea King helicopters with various Royal Navy squadrons, operating on a number of vessels including frigates, aircraft carriers and Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) platforms.
Later, I transferred to the Office Cadre as an Aviation Support Officer, taking on roles such as Flying Control Officer on RFA Fort Class ships, and Fire Station Officer at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose, where I oversaw Crash Fire and Rescue services for both Culdrose and Predannack Airfields, as well as domestic cover.
After leaving the Royal Navy, I achieved Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) accreditation to provide operational and emergency procedure training to Superyacht Crews engaged with helicopter operations.”
How has the industry evolved since you began working in it, and where do you see it heading next?
“There are two key changes that really stand out to me. First, the sheer increase in size and variety of superyacht design – which now allow for larger and more diverse aircraft to operate on them. Second, there’s been a noticeable shift in how helicopter operations are considered as part of the yacht’s overall design. There’s greater recognition now that safe, functional helidecks can be integrated seamlessly and aesthetically, without compromising on the safety standards required for commercial certification.”
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the helideck certification industry today?
“In my opinion, I think that the biggest challenge will come from the rapid technological advances in electrically powered aircraft and how they can be safely integrated into superyacht operations. However, we maintain a constant eye on these advancements with a view to supporting this emerging capability as the industry evolves.”
Get in touch with our team…
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.
