Bristow and Everett Aviation have taken delivery of two AW139s, reported to be the first to be certified for operations in Tanzania. Representatives from the Tanzanian CAA have completed training in the United States and will be licensed to certify future AW139s in-country.

The aircraft were accepted by Bristow for lease by Everett Aviation in support of offshore oil and gas aviation services, with a third expected to be delivered by the end of 2013, which will be dedicated to search and rescue operations.

“The acceptance of our first AW139s puts us in a position of strength as we expand into the east African offshore oil and gas industry,” says Simon Everett, ceo. “We are pleased to achieve certification of these aircraft by the Tanzanian Civil Aviation Authority and look forward to our partnership with both Bristow and AgustaWestland as future operating opportunities arise in our region.”