Gulf Helicopters signs $130m deal with Agusta

Dubai: Gulf Helicopters of Qatar has signed a $130-million deal with AgustaWestland for the purchase of 10 AW139 helicopters, which will enhance the company's offshore transport operations.

With the latest deal, AW139 sales have now reached the 300-mark, covering orders from more than 80 customers in over 30 countries, a press statement said.

Gulf Helicopters' deal includes the establishment of an AgustaWestland service station in Qatar for the AW139, considered to be the only new generation helicopter in its weight class.

AgustaWestland chief executive officer Giuseppe Orsi said he was delighted that Gulf Helicopters had chosen the AW139 as part of its fleet renewal programme, adding that the aircraft is the "best medium twin" for offshore transport operations.

Varied service

More than 100 aircraft are now in service performing offshore transport, VIP transport, law enforcement, utility, SAR and emergency medical service missions.

Gulf Helicopters, which has its own in-house maintenance facility, is a wholly owned subsidiary of state-run Qatar Petroleum.

The company has been providing helicopter services since 1970, working with firms in Middle East, India and North Africa.