Bristow and Sikorsky agree support deal for biggest S-92 fleet
Maintaining relationships: Bristow and Sikorsky have signed a long-term support deal for the S-92.
Helicopter operator Bristow has signed a long-term support deal with Sikorsky covering its 60 S-92 aircraft – the world’s biggest S-92 fleet – operating worldwide.
The package, covering offshore energy missions and search and rescue (SAR), includes the manufacturer’s Total Assurance Program (TAP). This provides Bristow with continued aftermarket support to operate its S-92 fleet within a known budget, designed to cut the risk of unplanned costs.
Key features of the agreement include: a power-by-the-hour (PBH) provision for offshore energy services and search and rescue helicopters and coverage for most replacement costs for parts including airframe, drive train, gearboxes, avionics and consumable parts.
Other provisions include enhanced global fleet support with access to Sikorsky’s worldwide network of forward stocking locations and field service representatives and access to Sikorsky360 customer portal. This provides the ability to place orders, check parts status, access services and financial information and view aircraft data.
Leon Silva, vice president of Global Commercial and Military Systems at Sikorsky welcomed the extension of the company’s long-standing relationship with Bristow. “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,” he added.
Stu Stavley, chief operating officer, Offshore Energy Services, Bristow said: “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.”
Last month Sikorsky revealed its S-92 Phase IV main gearbox featuring an auxiliary lubrication system. This automatically engages in the event of primary oil pressure loss, eliminating the need for immediate landing and allowing operators to safely reach their destination.
Sikorsky has also increased scheduled inspection intervals for S-92s and offered a one-time life extension for specific main gearbox housings. “The earned life credit is up to 1,200 hours/3,600 ground-air-ground cycles, representing an additional 12 to 18 months for an average S-92 offshore oil operator and more than 24 months for others,” according to the company.
