PHI celebrates diamond anniversary

PHI launched in the late '40s with three Bell 47 helicopters and seven employees.

Operator PHI Group is celebrating its 75th diamond anniversary. The business began back in 1949 with three Bell 47 helicopters and seven employees and has grown – a lot. Today it operates a fleet of more than 200 helicopters, flying missions worldwide with a team that totals more than 2,500 people.

Core operations focus on supporting energy providers, hospitals and air medical organisations among other roles. Acquisitions have included PHI Aviation, its global energy services division; PHI Air Medical, its US-based air ambulance provider; Helipass, its logistics business; and PHI MRO Services, its maintenance, repair and overhaul division.

“PHI has pioneered many firsts over its 75-year history,” said Scott McCarty, CEO, PHI Group. “From being the launch customer for several different airframe types to logging over 12 million flight hours, PHI has a rich history of innovation and performance – one that we’re extremely proud to continue today.”

McCarty praised employees’ contribution to the business. “Every employee – past, present and future – plays a pivotal role in shaping our story. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with our people, our customers and partners and our entire PHI family and community throughout 2024.”

Originally known as Petroleum Bell Helicopters, the business specialised in helicopter transportation for seismic crews exploring for oil and gas in the marshlands of South Louisiana. It was later renamed Petroleum Helicopters, Inc before adopting its current name.