Aircraft Will Support Offshore Oil And Gas Operations

Heli-Union is extending its long-standing relationship with Eurocopter by ordering four EC175 for offshore oil and gas missions. The contract signature was officially announced Tuesday during Heli-Union's 50-year anniversary celebration, which was held at its Toussus-le-Noble maintenance center near Paris, France, and included a fly-over of Eurocopter's no. 1 EC175 prototype.

"The EC175 order builds on a highly successful five-decade relationship with a very unique and important customer, and Eurocopter looks forward to continuing our partnership as Heli-Union expands its oil and gas operations into new regions of the world," said Eurocopter President & CEO Lutz Bertling. "As with many of Eurocopter's other products, Heli-Union provided valuable input during the EC175's development, and we will continue to benefit from its expertise once the helicopter is in service."

With deliveries of these new seven ton-class helicopters to Heli-Union beginning in 2013, the EC175 will introduce a new level of operational flexibility and comfort for international offshore oil and gas transportation services, as well being available for search & rescue missions.

"The EC175 will bring enhanced operational capabilities and unmatched passenger comfort for Heli-Union's oil and gas operations," explained Heli-Union Chairman & CEO Jean-Christophe Schmitt. "Eurocopter has been a key partner in our company's success during the past 50 years, and our new contract marks an important step in the next chapter of our operations."

FMI: www.eurocopter.com