ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - A union representing offshore oil workers in Newfoundland and Labrador is calling for a larger fleet of better equipped helicopters.
The Communications, Energy and Paperworkers union represents workers on the Terra Nova offshore production vessel.
Local president Brian Murphy told a public inquiry into the new Hebron offshore oil project that more choppers would help ease flight backlogs.
Flights are cancelled in rough weather when waves are higher than six metres.
Murphy said offshore helicopters should also be able to run dry for at least 30 minutes if oil is lost to the main gearbox.
Four Sikorsky S-92 choppers now flying off Newfoundland don't have that capability.
