13 January 2020 - Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. (TSXV: FO, AIM: FOG) provides the following operational update on the drilling of the Kyalla 117 N2-1H well in the Beetaloo Sub-Basin, Australia.
The vertical section of the Kyalla 117 well was successfully and safely completed in late November 2019. Drilling of the horizontal production hole section with a target length of 1,000 to 2,000 metres, commenced in early December.
However, after reaching a horizontal length of 700 metres, operational challenges were experienced in maintaining adequate clean hole conditions and stability over portions of the horizontal production hole section appropriate to complete operations.
The initial horizontal production hole section will now be plugged in line with regulatory requirements. This will then be followed by sidetracking and drilling a new horizontal production hole section.
Plugging back and drilling a new horizontal section from an existing vertical well is not uncommon in an exploration drilling program such as this.
With the drilling rig and equipment on-site and in position, drilling operations will recommence on the new horizontal well section within the next month.
Fracture stimulation activity will only occur after the successful completion of drilling and the integrity of the well is tested and verified.
Results obtained from operations to date in the target shale formation demonstrate good reservoir continuity, conductive natural fractures, and continuous gas shows. The JV remains positive about the potential of the Lower Kyalla Formation, resulting in the decision to continue with drilling operations.
Philip O’Quigley, CEO of Falcon commented:
“Whilst it is unfortunate to have encountered these operational difficulties, which will add to the time and cost to drill the horizontal section, the JV remains as optimistic about the potential of the Kyalla and we look forward to updating the market with further updates in due course.”