Aircraft To Be Configured For Offshore Passenger Transportation

Norwegian helicopter company BlueWay AS says it has signed a contract for three AW139 medium twin engine helicopters. The helicopters will be operated by its subsidiary DanCopter to support Shell offshore oil & gas operations in Nigeria. The three aircraft, which will be delivered in late 2011, will be configured in 12-seat offshore passenger configuration and equipped with a rescue hoist and cargo hook.

AgustaWestland says he AW139 delivers Category A (Class 1) performance from a helipad (elevated or at ground level) at maximum take-off weight with an unmatched one engine inoperative capability. The standard configuration provides seating for twelve or fifteen passengers in a large cabin. Energy-absorbing landing gear, fuselage and seats as well as high main and tail rotor ground clearance provide added safety for the passengers and maintenance teams whilst on the ground.

The company says the type has been able to meet several stringent operational and safety requirements such as the one of Shell Aircraft International which fully approved it for worldwide use by Shell companies in 2007, being compliant with JAR/FAR29 and offering Class 1 performance, HUMS, advanced navigation systems and the availability of a Level D flight and mission simulator to name a few. Over 120 customers from almost 50 countries have ordered more than 480 helicopters to perform a wide range of roles including offshore transport, EMS/SAR, VIP/corporate transport, law enforcement, utility and government missions.

BlueWay operates a fleet of 26 helicopters and provides a range of helicopter services within the oil and gas, infrastructure, environment and search & rescue markets.

FMI: www.agustawestland.com