Bristow selects Airbus H160 from Milestone for offshore missions in Africa

Airbus Helicopters welcomes Bristow Group as the newest operator of the Airbus H160. Bristow will introduce up to five H160 into its fleet for offshore energy missions across Africa. The aircraft are leased from Milestone Aviation Group. This agreement solidifies the H160’s success in the offshore energy segment and comes as the helicopter’s global rollout gains steam, having recently received certification from the appropriate regulatory authority in the region.  

Chris Bradshaw, President and CEO, Bristow Group commented: “Bringing these new Airbus H160 helicopters into our Africa operations further enhances our ability to deliver safe, reliable, and efficient services to our valued customers in the energy sector. The introduction of the H160 underscores Bristow’s commitment to maintaining the most capable and modern fleet as we continue to support our clients’ growing and diversified missions across the region.”

Pat Sheedy, the Chief Executive Officer of Milestone stated: "Milestone is proud to partner with Bristow on the lease of five new H160s – becoming the first lessor to bring this aircraft type into Bristow’s fleet. We continue to invest in new technology medium and super medium helicopters, ensuring our customers have access to the most in-demand, fuel-efficient aircraft in the industry and supporting mission-critical segments around the world. We thank Bristow and Airbus for their partnership and look forward to building on our successful relationship in the years to come.” 

Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters said: “We are extremely proud to welcome Bristow as a new H160 operator. Their trust in the H160 for their critical offshore missions in Africa is a major milestone for the programme. This agreement is also a testament to our strong and lasting partnership with Milestone, whose confidence in the H160 as a versatile and reliable asset is paving the way for its success in the global leasing market. We look forward to working closely with both Bristow and Milestone to ensure a smooth and successful entry into the energy market in Africa.”

The H160 is one of the world’s most technologically advanced helicopters, designed and built to deliver the highest levels of operational safety while providing unmatched comfort for rotorcraft in its class. Capable of performing wide-ranging missions including law enforcement, offshore transportation, search and rescue, private and business aviation, and emergency medical services, the H160 has entered into service in Brazil, Canada, China, France, India, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, U.K., U.S. and many other European countries.