he new Framework Agreement includes 10 firm orders plus 10 options supporting Bristow fleet expansion plans from 2025 to 2028

The deal underscores Bristow’s success with the AW189 over the years – the most successful super medium helicopter in the market for offshore transport and other roles 
 

Leonardo and Bristow Group Inc. (NYSE: VTOL), the leading global provider of innovative and sustainable vertical flight solutions, announced a framework agreement including firm orders for 10 AW189 super medium helicopters plus 10 options. 

Bristow is currently operating 21 AW189 helicopters globally with another five due off the assembly line in 2024. The new framework agreement covers a fleet expansion plan for the 2025-2028 period. Bristow uses the AW189 in its Offshore Energy Services business line as well as in its Government Services business line supporting search and rescue operations in the U.K., the Netherlands, and beginning in 2025 in Ireland. The leading super medium AW189 delivers modern and safe long range, high endurance, and high capacity, similar to larger- and heavier-type helicopters, while allowing lower operating costs. 

Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director for Leonardo Helicopters, said: “This latest step supporting our key partner Bristow is further testament to the outstanding capabilities of the AW189 as the aircraft of choice in its category for energy support missions among prime operators and countries. We’re proud to continue to provide our contribution to Bristow with this type, its technology and support solutions.” 

Leonardo and Bristow have collaborated for more than 28 years with Bristow using a range of aircraft types including the AW119 single engine, AW109 light twin, AW139 intermediate twin, and AW189 super medium. Bristow’s fleet of Leonardo helicopters will account for nearly 110 units with the arrival of these additional 10 AW189 helicopters.

In 2022, the companies signed a 10-year global service agreement for Bristow’s offshore fleet, applying to their AW139 and AW189 fleet, in operation across the globe. This unique service agreement is intended to deliver more efficient overall logistics and savings to the operator, highlighting the value of Leonardo logistic service offerings, increasing performance across geographies.

Photo Rob Vogelaar