Holds Two Add'l Options For Twin-Turbine Helos

AgustaWestland announced this week Helicopters New Zealand (Helicopters NZ) recently signed a contract for an additional three AW139 medium twin turbine engine helicopters, plus options for a further two aircraft. These helicopters -- which add to two AW139s previously purchased, with the first aircraft already in service and the second one expected to be delivered soon -- will be used for offshore transport purposes.

The acquisition of new AW139s will enable the company to further increase its ability to further expand its support of offshore companies in the region, such as Shell.

"Helicopters New Zealand has experienced growing success in recent years and the state-of-the-art AW139 helicopter has played a major role to pursue our goals," said Brian McDonald, Chief Executive Officer, Helicopters NZ. "We are confident that further expanding our AW139-based fleet will enable us to achieve even greater accomplishments in the future."

AgustaWestland notes the AW319 is the best selling medium twin helicopter in the world marketplace, and has become the aircraft of choice for offshore oil and gas support operations.

Orders for almost 350 AW139 helicopters have been placed so far by almost 100 customers from nearly 40 countries for various applications including offshore transport, search and rescue, EMS, VIP/corporate transport, utility, law enforcement and other government tasks.

FMI: www.agustawestland.com, www.helicoptersnz.co.nz/