Bristow Group selects up to five Airbus H160 helicopters for offshore energy operations in Africa
November 17, 2025
Airbus Helicopters has gained fresh momentum for the H160 with Bristow Group confirming plans to introduce up to five aircraft for offshore energy operations in Africa.
The helicopters, to be leased from Milestone Aviation Group, will strengthen Bristow’s regional fleet as offshore activity in key African markets continues to recover. The announcement came during the Dubai Airshow, marking one of the most notable commercial moves for the H160 in the last year.
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Expanding offshore capacity across Africa
The H160 has gradually cleared regulatory hurdles in several countries, allowing operators to bring the type into roles traditionally handled by older medium twins. Bristow Group intends to use the new aircraft across a mix of crew transport and support missions for energy customers in Africa.
Chris Bradshaw, Bristow’s president and chief executive, said the additions fit into the company’s wider plan to modernise its fleet. “Bringing these new Airbus H160 helicopters into our Africa operations further enhances our ability to deliver safe, reliable, and efficient services to our valued customers in the energy sector,” he said.
“The introduction of the H160 underscores Bristow’s commitment to maintaining the most capable and modern fleet as we continue to support our clients’ growing and diversified missions across the region.”
Bristow remains one of the world’s most established helicopter operators, working across personnel transport, search and rescue, medevac, fixed-wing services and unmanned systems.
The company’s footprint stretches from the Americas to the North Sea and the Asia-Pacific region. In Africa, it has long-running operations in Egypt and Nigeria, making the continent a natural location for introducing new aircraft.
Milestone becomes first lessor to place H160s with Bristow
For Milestone Aviation Group, the agreement marks a significant first. The lessor will supply all five helicopters, adding a new type to Bristow’s fleet.
Pat Sheedy, Milestone’s chief executive, said the move fits the company’s focus on newer and more efficient rotorcraft. “Milestone is proud to partner with Bristow on the lease of five new H160s – becoming the first lessor to bring this aircraft type into Bristow’s fleet,” he said.
Airbus sees a key reference customer for the H160
Airbus Helicopters also highlighted the importance of securing a high-profile offshore operator for the H160.
Bruno Even, the company’s chief executive, said Bristow’s decision marks a point of progress for a programme the manufacturer has slowly rolled out into multiple markets.
“We are extremely proud to welcome Bristow as a new H160 operator. Their trust in the H160 for their critical offshore missions in Africa is a major milestone for the programme,” he said.
What the H160 brings to offshore flying
With a capacity for up to 12 passengers and powered by a pair of Safran Arrano 1A engines, the H160 sits between Airbus’s H145 and H175 in size.
The aircraft’s design aims at reducing fuel consumption and improving stability in demanding environments, while its endurance and range – up to four and a half hours and roughly 890 km – suit the long offshore routes typically flown in Africa and elsewhere.
The type is already in service in a number of countries, including Brazil, Canada, France, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the UK and the United States, and continues to gain approvals in new jurisdictions.
Featured image: Airbus Helicopters
