Bristow Group Inc., a global leader in innovative vertical flight solutions, and Leonardo, a leader in aerospace, defence, and security, have finalized a series of long-term agreements to enhance global fleet support and training for Bristow’s AW139 and AW189 helicopter fleets. The agreements, which extend into the next decade, will strengthen operational efficiency, maintenance, and training capabilities for Bristow’s operations, particularly in offshore energy services (OES) and search and rescue (SAR) missions.
The new package includes enhanced Power-by-the-Hour (PBH) agreements for both SAR and OES helicopters, providing tailored maintenance solutions to improve operational efficiency. Bristow’s training capabilities will also receive a significant boost with the introduction of a long-term AW189 simulator training agreement in Aberdeen, Scotland, to support critical pilot training needs. Starting in 2026, a new AW139 full flight simulator will be added to the training centre in Aberdeen, complementing the existing AW189 simulator and further strengthening Bristow’s training infrastructure in the North Sea region. In addition, Bristow will benefit from an enhanced global fleet support agreement, covering key performance indicators (KPIs), inventory management, training, Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS), and other Leonardo-provided services to ensure optimal fleet performance.
As part of its ongoing expansion, Bristow will also introduce four new AW189 helicopters into its offshore energy services fleet by 2025 and 2026. These new aircraft, part of a previously announced order, are expected to provide greater flexibility to Bristow’s fleet planning and support growing contractual demands in the offshore energy sector.
“These additions align with Bristow’s strategic objectives to enhance operational capability and meet contractual demands,” said Stu Stavley, Bristow’s Chief Operating Officer for Offshore Energy Services. “The finalization of these long-term support and training agreements will support Bristow’s ability to meet the evolving needs of both our Government Services and Offshore Energy Services operations.”
The partnership between Bristow and Leonardo underscores the companies’ long-standing collaboration and mutual commitment to maintaining high standards of operational safety and efficiency. Leonardo will provide Bristow with full component coverage service plans, localized technical support, and access to advanced simulators and training courses, ensuring Bristow continues to operate at peak efficiency.
“The renewed Global Support and Training Agreement for the AW139 and AW189 demonstrates Leonardo’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art solutions,” said Paul de Jonge Van Ellemeet, Senior Vice President of Commercial Market Development & Global Accounts at Leonardo. “By offering full component coverage service plans, localized technical support, and access to our advanced simulators and courses, we are ensuring Bristow continues to operate at the highest level of efficiency and safety as they also keep expanding their fleet of Leonardo helicopters.”
This new phase of collaboration between Bristow and Leonardo is expected to further strengthen Bristow’s capabilities in critical offshore energy and SAR operations, supporting the company’s global leadership in vertical flight solutions and reinforcing its commitment to long-term growth and operational excellence.
