CHC Helicopter has welcomed its first H175 for use in offshore oil and gas operations. The aircraft has been delivered in offshore passenger transport configuration, allowing CHC to begin training and adjustment from its base at Aberdeen, ahead of operational launch.

Capable of carrying 16 passengers, the H175 will also benefit from a nose-to-tail HCare services contract. The HCare contract is intended to maximise cost efficiencies through coverage for all spare parts and repairable items supplied from Airbus Helicopters' North Sea Fleet Centre, which is also in Aberdeen.

CHC senior VP Dave Balevic says: “The H175 allows us to continue to refine our global fleet to meet the unique needs of our customers while offering the latest aircraft technology and capabilities.”

The global fleet of 15 H175s has flown more than 12,000 hours, with 12 flying oil and gas missions in the North Sea.

CHC has committed to lease five new aircraft from Milestone Aviation Group, including three AW189s and two H175s, and this H175 forms part of that order. These aircraft will be configured for energy transport missions and will serve CHC customers in the North Sea and Australia.

“We are working closely with Milestone to build a productive, safe and reliable fleet to meet the varying needs of our customers throughout the world,” says CHC president and CEO Karl Fessenden. “Milestone has been a valuable leasing partner towards this goal, with a diverse order book across manufacturers and types, and deep expertise in aircraft operational capabilities.

“Since completing our restructuring in March, our fleet productivity has significantly improved and matches our historical peak levels before the oil and gas downturn. We are excited to add these new super medium aircraft to our fleet in support of new customer contracts.”