Earlier this week, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation announced that Xavier Aviation has signed deposit agreements for two S-76D helicopters scheduled for delivery in 2009. Xavier Aviation is based in Palm Springs FL and -- through its relationship with Aircraft Services Group (ASG) based in Ramsey, NJ -- provides an entire range of helicopter services to its customers.

ASG currently operates one Sikorsky S76B helicopter on behalf of Xavier for executive transport and multi-mission use. Both new S-76D aircraft will be managed by ASG. ASG also manages two S-92(TM) helicopters for customers in the United States and Europe.

"We are looking forward to continuing our long-standing relationship with the Sikorsky product line. The D model is perfectly suited for Xavier's hot and high operating environment," said Aircraft Services Group, Inc.'s Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Parker.

The launch of the S-76D model was first announced in February 2005 as a series of engine, air vehicle, interior and avionics upgrades that ensure that the venerable S-76 product line will remain best-in-class in the corporate VIP, offshore oil, airline, EMS/ search-and-rescue and law enforcement segments.

Product improvements on the S-76D include new composite main rotor blades, new quiet tail rotor, rotorcraft icing protection system (RIPS), an all new Thales cockpit, and a new Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210 engine.

FMI: www.sikorsky.com, www.yourjet.com