PHI agrees deal for 12 AW189s for offshore energy

Leonardo and PHI have agreed a deal for 12 AW189s, with deliveries starting in 2025.

PHI Group has agreed a deal with Leonardo Helicopters for the delivery of 12 AW189 aircraft for the global offshore energy market. The agreement includes firm orders as well as purchase options, with deliveries starting next year.

Also Included in the deal is a service centre agreement, MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) agreement and training for AW139s and AW189s.

Scott McCarty, CEO, PHI Group said the agreement marked a significant milestone in its  partnership with the manufacturer. “Not only are we investing in state-of-the-art aircraft like the AW189, which underscores our commitment to delivering innovative solutions and ensures we are well-equipped to provide unparalleled service to our global customers, but we are also fortifying our repair and overhaul capabilities,” said McCarty. The company will continue to grow its MRO facility in Lafayette, Louisiana, he added.

Stefano Villanti, senior vice president, Marketing & Sales, Leonardo Helicopters said: “This [agreement] provides further evidence of our commitment to delivering customised solutions by which we can support PHI to meet its long range operational requirement ensuring its fleet can be efficiently sustained by the level of service and proximity they deserve.”

PHI operates more than 200 helicopters worldwide in a range of markets, including energy and air medical. Its fleet numbers over 20 Leonardo aircraft including AW139 and AW109 helicopters.

After 10 years since its certification, nearly 150 AW189s have been ordered, and more than 90 delivered to operators worldwide. Two safety features of the AW189 include the ability of the main transmission to run without oil for 50 minutes and a built-in auxiliary power unit, according to the manufacturer.