ASG Helicopter Services has achieved a significant milestone in the development of Azerbaijan's light aviation sector with the presentation of the first AW189 helicopter in a new offshore configuration. This event marks an important step in expanding the company's aircraft fleet and confirms its commitment to supporting offshore oil and gas operations through the use of advanced international aviation technologies.

At a time when aviation safety requirements are constantly evolving, especially for specialised operations such as flights to offshore drilling platforms, the Leonardo AW189 helicopter is regarded as one of the most suitable aircraft for these missions. It is a modern twin-engine super-medium class helicopter, optimised for long-range overwater transportation, SAR missions and a wide range of tasks in the energy sector. Thanks to its advanced avionics, spacious cabin and high operational reliability, the AW189 significantly enhances ASG Helicopter Services' ability to safely and efficiently support offshore drilling rigs, platforms and remote energy facilities.

“Next-generation helicopters represent a significant new era for ASG Helicopter Services. The integration of the AW189 helicopter into our offshore operations strengthens our capability to meet the evolving needs of customers in the oil, gas and energy sectors, while ensuring the highest standards of safety, reliability and operational efficiency,” says Azer Sultanov, head of the company.

For Azerbaijan, the AW189 is a new aircraft type that has successfully completed all required procedures for the commencement of operations and has received both registration and airworthiness certificates from the local aviation authorities. It complements the diverse existing fleet of ASG Helicopter Services, which includes the Sikorsky S-92A and other already-operated Leonardo family aircraft such as the AW139 and AW109, reflecting the company's ongoing strategy to invest in advanced technologies and world-class aircraft capable of performing complex missions both onshore and offshore.

Key advantages of the AW189 in offshore configuration include: seating capacity for up to 16 passengers and two crew members; enhanced offshore capabilities, specifically equipped for long-range transport, SAR support and energy sector operations; passenger and cargo flexibility, with a spacious cabin suitable for transporting personnel and critical equipment; and advanced safety systems, featuring modern avionics and technologies designed to meet stringent international standards in challenging offshore environments.

ASG Helicopter Services is a modern and technically advanced helicopter operator in the Caspian Sea region, and continues to pursue excellence by combining fleet modernisation with international aviation safety practices and customer expectations. The introduction of the AW189 strengthens the company's position and enables the expansion of its service portfolio in the Caspian Sea region, with potential growth into other regional and global markets in the future.

Over the years, the company has become a well-recognised player in the helicopter services market. It holds an international Part 145 certificate issued by European aviation authorities and has been recognised by Leonardo as a certified service centre for the AW139, AW109 and the new AW189 helicopter types. This status allows ASG Helicopter Services to provide technical support and maintenance not only for its own fleet, but also for any international operators of these aircraft types.

Today, the company employs more than 500 staff members. Its technical and flight personnel have undergone specialised training and regularly update their skills and knowledge at international training centres, maintaining a high level of professional expertise in the aviation industry.