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Sikorsky and Bristow Group Forge Long-Term Alliance for S-92® Fleet Support

In a significant development targeting the future of aviation, Sikorsky, part of Lockheed Martin, has entered a long-term agreement with Bristow Group Inc., a global frontrunner in vertical flight solutions. This partnership aims to bolster support for Bristow’s extensive fleet of S-92® helicopters, known for their pivotal roles in offshore energy operations and search and rescue (SAR) missions.

Decades of Collaboration Enhanced

The newly signed multi-year deal deepens the long-established relationship between Sikorsky and Bristow, ensuring that Bristow's more than 60 S-92 aircraft receive enhanced support. This strategic alliance not only promises improved services in critical markets worldwide but also reduces the uncertainties around operational costs, thanks to Sikorsky’s innovative Total Assurance Program (TAP).

Leon Silva, the vice president for Global Commercial and Military Systems at Sikorsky, expressed pride in continuing the partnership with one of the leading helicopter service providers in the offshore energy sector. Emphasizing Sikorsky's commitment to exceptional customer support, Silva noted that the S-92 helicopters boast a remarkable lifetime availability average exceeding 90%, with many units logging more than 1,500 flight hours annually in challenging environments.

Ensuring Operational Efficiency

Bristow Group, recognized as the largest operator of S-92 helicopters globally, anticipates this long-term support will help maintain high service standards while effectively managing operational costs. The TAP package encompasses several vital benefits for Bristow’s international fleet:

- Power-by-the-Hour Agreement: This ensures consistent support for offshore energy services and SAR helicopters.
- Comprehensive Parts Coverage: It covers over 90% of costs for critical components including airframes, drive trains, gearboxes, avionics, and other consumable parts.
- Global Fleet Support Access: Bristow gains access to Sikorsky's worldwide network of forward stocking locations and field service representatives, enhancing their operational capabilities.
- Sikorsky360 Customer Portal: This innovative portal allows Bristow to efficiently manage orders, check part statuses, access services, financial information, and aircraft data online.

Innovations in Helicopter Technology

The collaboration also underscores Sikorsky's ongoing investment in advancing the S-92 platform. Recently, Sikorsky introduced a new Phase IV main gearbox featuring an auxiliary lubrication system that activates automatically if primary oil pressure drops, allowing the aircraft to safely reach its destination without needing immediate landing. This significant upgrade has undergone rigorous testing exceeding 800 hours and is expected to receive FAA certification in 2025.

Sikorsky has also improved the scheduled inspection intervals for S-92 helicopters, leading to a substantial reduction in downtime historically caused by these checks. With potential life extensions for specific gearbox components, operators can maintain their aircraft in service longer, directly translating to improved revenue generation opportunities.

Looking to the Future

This agreement comes at a time when the demand for reliable aviation support in deepwater operations is escalating. Both Sikorsky and Bristow Group are positioning themselves to meet these challenges head-on with innovative solutions that cater to the evolving landscape of the offshore energy and SAR sectors.

For more information on the S-92 and the services offered by Sikorsky and Bristow, visit the respective company websites. This merger of expertise not only illustrates the strength of partnerships in the aviation industry but also ensures a promising future for both companies.

By enhancing operational efficiencies and controlling costs, the Sikorsky-Bristow partnership demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes service excellence and technological advancement amidst rapidly changing industry demands.