Bristow Group Inc announced 28th February that it has signed an agreement with Italian based Leonardo for 10 AW189 super medium helicopters plus options to purchase an additional 10 AW189 helicopters for delivery between 2025 and 2028. The new AW189 helicopters will support offshore transport as well as search and rescue (SAR) missions.
Commencing in 2024, Bristow will operate AW189s for Coast Guard search and rescue aviation services in Ireland.
Bristow President and CEO Chris Bradshaw said “The AW189 is a leading super medium helicopter offering reliable and safe long-range, high-capacity performance, while allowing for lower operating costs than traditional heavy helicopters. We are upgrading our fleet while taking a proactive approach to the evolving needs of our customers.”
Bristow currently operates 21 AW189 helicopters globally, an additional five already scheduled for delivery this year.
These new AW189 helicopters will offer added flexibility as well as superior operational and environmental performance including lower CO2 emissions than comparable aircraft types. The new aircraft will also be capable of operating Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) in the future due to certification standards already received by Leonardo.
Image Credit: Bristow Group
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