HMS rev 9c Compliance Deadline Extended - But Action is Still Required
HCA UK Extends HMS Rev 9c Compliance Date to 30 June 2027
HCA UK has announced an important update to the implementation timeline for Helideck Monitoring System (HMS) Revision 9c, as agreed by UK Helideck Technical Committee comprising UK CAA, HCA, HSE and the UK helicopter operators.
Due to challenges encountered by the majority of HMS OEMs, the compliance deadline for implementing HMS Rev 9c has been extended to 30 June 2027.
HCA UK has confirmed that all offshore assets operating within the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS), and all offshore installations required to comply with CAP 437, must have an HMS compliant with Revision 9c of the HMS Standard by this date.
Enforcement of the requirement will begin on 1 July 2027.
While the extension provides additional time for operators to complete the necessary upgrades, it should not be viewed as a reason to delay implementation planning.
Enforcement Measures for Non-Compliant Assets
HCA UK has also clarified the consequences for offshore assets that do not have an HMS meeting the Rev 9c standard from 1 July 2027.
Any non-compliant offshore asset will be restricted to stable deck operating conditions only, such as:
- Pitch and roll conditions ≥1°
- Significant Heave Rate (SHR) ≥0.4 m/s
Critically, no dispensations will be available in the event of non-compliance.
These restrictions could have a significant impact on offshore helicopter operations, operational flexibility, logistics planning, and overall asset availability.
What This Means for Operators
For operators and asset owners who have not yet upgraded their HMS to Revision 9c, the extended deadline provides a valuable opportunity to plan and execute the necessary work in a controlled manner and to ensure that the required upgrade is included in their 2027 budget planning, avoiding last-minute costs and resource constraints as the compliance deadline approaches.
However, as the industry moves towards the new compliance date, demand for upgrades, testing, and verification services is expected to increase. Early action can help avoid capacity constraints and ensure uninterrupted operational readiness.
ShoreConnection Is Ready to Assist
ShoreConnection has already successfully commissioned more than 175 Rev. 9c HMS. For ShoreConnection customers who have not yet completed their HMS Rev 9c upgrade, this update is an important reminder to begin preparations now.
ShoreConnection is ready to support both existing customers and other operators that must comply with CAP 437 and the HMS Standard, providing assistance with:
- HMS Rev 9c compliance assessments
- Software and equipment upgrades
- System testing and verification
- Upgrade planning and project execution
- Technical advice on achieving compliance well ahead of the deadline
Whether you are reviewing your current HMS configuration or planning a future upgrade programme, ShoreConnection can help ensure compliance before enforcement begins on 1 July 2027.
Act Early, Avoid Operational Restrictions
The deadline may have been extended, but the compliance requirement remains unchanged. Operators who delay implementation risk facing operational restrictions that could affect helicopter access and offshore activities.
If your HMS has not yet been upgraded to Rev 9c, contact ShoreConnection today to discuss the most effective path to compliance.
