Bristow Group Inc. has received the first two of five Airbus H160 medium-twin helicopters leased from Milestone Aviation Group for use in its Nigeria offshore operations, the first time the next-generation aircraft is introduced to the African continent.
The helicopters, manufactured by Airbus Helicopters, are undergoing final preparations before entering offshore service in the coming months, the companies said in a statement Tuesday.
The delivery marks the first phase of a five-helicopter agreement under which Milestone will lease H160 aircraft to Bristow for energy industry transportation services.
The introduction of the aircraft is expected to enhance offshore aviation operations supporting Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, where helicopters are widely used to transport workers and equipment to offshore platforms.
“This aircraft brings a combination of advanced technology, operational flexibility and improved fuel efficiency that strengthens our ability to deliver safe, reliable and cost-effective transportation for our customers,” said Stu Stavely, chief operating officer for offshore energy services at Bristow.
He said the helicopter’s range, payload capacity and ability to operate from smaller helidecks give it a significant operational advantage in offshore markets such as West Africa.
The H160 can carry up to 12 passengers and is designed to operate efficiently on long offshore routes while maintaining high safety standards.
Milestone Aviation said the transaction also marks the first time the leasing company is introducing the aircraft into Bristow’s fleet.
“Our continued investment in next-generation helicopters ensures our customers have access to the most efficient and capable aircraft available,” said Pat Sheedy, chief executive officer of Milestone Aviation.
The helicopter is one of Airbus’ newest medium-twin rotorcraft and features advanced aerodynamics and digital flight systems aimed at improving performance, safety and passenger comfort.
Bruno Even, chief executive of Airbus Helicopters, said the delivery demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting offshore energy operations with more efficient aircraft.
He said the H160 delivers about 18% lower fuel consumption compared with similar helicopters in its class.
With three additional aircraft scheduled for delivery under the agreement, Bristow is expected to operate one of the most modern helicopter fleets serving Africa’s offshore energy industry.
Helicopter transport plays a critical role in Nigeria’s offshore oil and gas operations, enabling companies to move personnel to production platforms located far from shore.
The H160 has already entered service in several global markets including Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. Its deployment in Nigeria will mark the aircraft’s first operational use on the African continent.
Introducing newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft could help offshore service companies reduce operational costs while improving safety and reliability for energy operators.
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