Helicopter services provider Bristow has signed a deal with Sikorsky Aircraft, a subsidiary of United Technologies, for up to 26 S-76D helicopters, which will be used to perform offshore oil transport missions.
Powered by Pratt & Whitney PW210S engines, the medium-twin aircraft features all-composite, flaw-tolerant main rotor blades, an advanced Thales integrated avionics system and autopilot, as well as a health and usage monitoring system and active vibration control.
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In order to mark the agreement, the companies held an acknowledgement ceremony at the Heli-Expo 2013 industry event in Las Vegas, Nevada, US.
Sikorsky president Mick Maurer said: "This agreement represents the S-76D helicopter’s introduction into operations in the Gulf of Mexico and other international arenas later this year, and it also further strengthens the more than 40-year relationship between the Bristow Group and Sikorsky Aircraft."
Bristow president and chief executive officer Bill Chiles said the S-76D helicopters will join Bristow’s worldwide fleet of more than 500 aircraft.
"Without question, the intensive offshore oil and gas transportation mission requires a reliable aircraft that is ready to work an aggressive schedule and the S-76 has continuously proven itself in that role," Chiles said.
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By GlobalData"Bristow’s objective is to provide the safest, most reliable and efficient service to our clients and we look forward to putting the new S-76D with its enhanced capabilities into our operations around the world," he added.
Sikorsky expects to begin the deliveries of the S-76D helicopters this year.
Bristow provides helicopter services to the offshore energy industry, and it is one of two helicopter service providers to the offshore energy industry with global operations.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport’s (MOT) Rescue and Salvage Bureau in China has also signed a deal with Sikorsky Aircraft for four S-76D search and rescue rotorcraft, with an option for another four in 2014.
Image: Sikorsky is expected to begin the deliveries of the S-76D helicopters this year. Photo courtesy of Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.
