Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, and Bristow Group Inc. announced a long-term agreement to provide enhanced support for Bristow’s fleet of over 60 S-92 helicopters. The agreement covers operations in offshore energy and search and rescue (SAR) markets.
The support package includes Sikorsky’s Total Assurance Program (TAP), offering aftermarket services with predictable costs. The agreement extends into the next decade.
Leon Silva, Vice President of Global Commercial and Military Systems at Sikorsky, stated: “We are proud to continue our long-standing relationship with Bristow, one of the world’s leading providers of helicopter services to the offshore energy industry. We are committed to providing exceptional support to our customers and ensuring the continued success of the S-92 helicopter, which has a lifetime availability average of over 90% and many aircraft achieve more than 1,500 flight hours per year on average in the demanding offshore energy industry.
Stu Stavley, Bristow’s Chief Operating Officer, Offshore Energy Services, said: “Bristow is the largest operator of the S-92 globally. This long-term support agreement will enable us to maintain our high level of service to our customers, while also controlling our operational costs and improving our overall efficiency.”
The TAP package includes:
Power-by-the-Hour (PBH) agreement for offshore energy and SAR helicopters
Coverage for over 90% of replacement parts, including airframe, drive train, gearboxes, avionics, and consumables
Access to Sikorsky’s global support network, including forward stocking locations (FSL) and field service representatives (FSR)
Use of Sikorsky360 customer portal for parts ordering, fleet tracking, and financial management
Sikorsky continues to invest in the S-92 platform, including the recently introduced Phase IV main gearbox with an auxiliary lubrication system. The system activates during primary oil pressure loss, allowing continued safe flight. The upgrade has undergone 800+ hours of testing, with FAA certification expected in 2025.
Additional S-92 enhancements include extended inspection intervals and a one-time life extension for main gearbox housings, providing up to 1,200 hours / 3,600 cycles of additional service life.