Milestone Aviation Group and Safran Helicopter Engines signed a framework agreement at the European Rotors show last week that will help the leasing provider and the engine manufacturer manage engine assets and make it easier to move aircraft between lessees. The agreement includes Milestone’s continued support to promote Safran’s by-the-hour support program, according to Milestone, “which protects residual value, controls engine maintenance costs, eliminates cash peaks, and offers a wide variety of technical expertise options.”

The two companies have worked together for more than 10 years, but this is the first time they have signed this kind of agreement, according to Milestone CEO Pat Sheedy.

“We are delighted with this increasingly solid relationship with Milestone, a major lessor in the helicopter industry,” said Cédric Goubet, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines. “This agreement will streamline the transfer of helicopters, bring a great deal of added value to Milestone’s activities, and support their Safran-powered fleet, as well as reinforce our by-the-hour services in direct support of the end-users.”