NHV Group, the Belgium-headquartered B2B helicopter services provider, has extended its contract for helicopter services for the Dutch Pilots' Organisation (DPO), a crucial partnership supporting maritime pilotage services in the Netherlands.

The long-term contract will continue to support the Dutch pilotage service from Pistoolhaven in Rotterdam and will replace the current fleet with new generation aircraft. NHV’s helicopter services play a crucial role in swiftly transporting shipping pilots to and from large vessels navigating Dutch harbours, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

In a significant upgrade, NHV will replace the current fleet with two Airbus H145 D3 aircraft for enhanced safety, reliability and performance. The decision to transition from the Dauphin AS365N3 fleet to the H145 reflects NHV’s dedication to investing in the latest technology to better serve its clients. While the Dauphin aircraft have been known for their reliability, the advanced features of the H145 ensure improved reliability and efficiency.

Elco Oskam, DPO manager operations Rotterdam-Rijnmond region, says: “The Dutch Pilots' Organisation is pleased with the extension of our long-term collaboration in a new contract with NHV. With a future renewal of the fleet as part of the contract we look forward to a new era in which our marine pilots are supported in their business in a safe and sustainable manner. NHV has always been a reliable partner with excellent customer focus, and we trust that this will be no different in the coming years.”

Bart Sinnaeve, director of operations at NHV Group’s helicopter services and West Africa business unit, adds: “The continuation of our successful partnership with Dutch Pilots’ Organisation, supported by the introduction of the new fleet of aircraft, marks a significant milestone.”

The contract extension will see NHV operating the new Airbus H145 D3 aircraft from Pistoolhaven, starting from the beginning of 2025. NHV remains committed to providing top-tier helicopter services and looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the DPO.