PHI Group, which operates more than 200 helicopters around the world, has inked a deal with Leonardo for up to 12 AW189 helicopters. The agreement, which covers both firm orders and purchase options, also includes an extensive support program. This includes maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) and service center agreements, and also training solutions for both the AW189 and the smaller AW139.

Supporting offshore oil and gas exploitation is the main task of PHI’s fleet, although it also provides aeromedical and other services. The AW189s will be outfitted to fully comply with the guidelines of the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers Report 690. PHI is no stranger to Leonardo helicopters; it already operates more than 20 AW109s and AW139s.

“Today marks another significant milestone in our longstanding partnership with Leonardo,” said PHI Group CEO Scott McCarty. “Not only are we investing in aircraft like the AW189—which underscores our commitment to delivering innovative solutions and ensures we are well-equipped to provide unparalleled service to our global customers—but we are also fortifying our repair and overhaul capabilities as we continue to focus on the growth of our world-class MRO facility at Lafayette, Louisiana.”

PHI expects to begin receiving the super-medium twin-engine helicopters next year from Leonardo. The sale moves the Italian helicopter manufacturer's AW189 order book closer to the 150-unit mark, of which more than 90 have now been delivered. A key safety feature of the AW189 is the ability of the main transmission to operate for 50 minutes without gearbox oil.