Business Aviation
Milestone and Leonardo Launch Helicopter Leasing Efficiency Pact
Power-by-the-Hour agreement optimizes 100+ helicopters for offshore energy and EMS missions, reducing costs via predictive maintenance.
The global aviation industry is undergoing a significant shift, particularly in the specialized domain of helicopter leasing. This transformation is driven by rising demand for offshore energy support, emergency medical services (EMS), and environmentally sustainable aviation solutions. At the forefront of this evolution is a newly announced framework agreement between Milestone Aviation Group and Leonardo Helicopters, revealed on July 2, 2025, that could redefine how operational efficiency and cost predictability are managed in the sector.
Milestone, the world’s leading helicopter leasing firm and a subsidiary of AerCap, has signed a Power-by-the-Hour (PBH) agreement with Leonardo, a globally recognized manufacturer known for models like the AW139, AW169, and AW189. This agreement encompasses over 100 helicopters from Milestone’s Leonardo fleet and introduces a streamlined PBH transition solution aimed at reducing maintenance costs and increasing uptime for operators worldwide.
This collaboration marks a pivotal point in aviation asset management, reflecting nearly 15 years of cooperation between the two companies. It also aligns with broader industry trends such as digitalization, predictive maintenance, and the shift toward renewable energy support missions.
The relationship between Milestone and Leonardo dates back to 2010, with their first major transaction occurring in 2013. At that time, Milestone placed an order for 22 helicopters valued at $682 million, marking one of the largest civilian helicopter sales in AgustaWestland’s history, the predecessor to Leonardo. This procurement strategy allowed Milestone to lease Leonardo helicopters to operators worldwide, forming the foundation of a mutually beneficial partnership.
Fast forward to 2025, and Milestone now operates a Leonardo fleet of over 100 helicopters, including AW169s, AW139s, and AW189s. These aircraft are deployed across a range of missions such as offshore oil and gas transport, search and rescue (SAR), EMS, and renewable energy operations. The current agreement builds on this history by introducing a standardized PBH model applicable across Milestone’s global customer base.
This development is more than a contract, it’s a strategic alignment. According to Francesco Bellardi, VP of Customer Support and Services at Leonardo, the agreement “lays the groundwork across Leonardo’s global operations” and is the result of months of collaboration between the two entities.
“This agreement not only solidifies the foundation of mutual trust and cooperation but also lays the groundwork across Leonardo’s global operations.”
, Francesco Bellardi, VP Customer Support and Services, Leonardo S.p.A.
The PBH model represents a shift from traditional leasing structures toward performance-based contracts. Instead of fixed lease payments, operators pay based on actual flight hours, allowing for better alignment between cost and usage. This model gained traction during economic downturns, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, when operators sought to reduce fixed costs and preserve cash flow. Leonardo has been a pioneer in PBH agreements, previously signing a similar deal with PHI Aviation in 2023. That agreement included predictive maintenance tools and global support coverage. The new framework with Milestone takes this a step further by applying PBH across a diverse fleet and multiple operators, effectively creating a standardized maintenance ecosystem.
The agreement covers three primary helicopter models, each tailored to specific mission profiles. The AW139 is a versatile 15-seat twin-engine helicopter used for offshore transport, EMS, and law enforcement. With over 1,200 units produced, it is one of the most widely adopted medium-lift helicopters globally.
The AW169, a smaller 10-seat model, is optimized for EMS and utility missions. It features advanced avionics and night vision compatibility, making it suitable for complex operations. The AW189, a super-medium helicopter designed for offshore work, offers a 50-minute run-dry gearbox and has logged over 155,000 flight hours in offshore missions alone.
This fleet diversity enables Milestone to support approximately 50 customers in 35 countries, addressing mission-critical needs from oil and gas to firefighting and police surveillance.
The agreement is particularly timely given the dual expansion of the offshore energy sector, traditional oil and gas and the burgeoning offshore wind industry. Leonardo currently operates nearly 500 helicopters globally in offshore roles, and the AW189 is a preferred platform for such missions thanks to its endurance and payload capabilities.
As countries invest in offshore wind infrastructure, the need for reliable air transport to remote installations increases. Helicopters like the AW189 play a crucial role in construction, maintenance, and emergency response. This trend is evident in recent deals, such as GD Helicopter Finance’s acquisition of 20 H175 helicopters for energy and SAR missions.
Milestone’s positioning in this sector is strategic, as the PBH model enhances operational reliability, an essential factor in offshore environments where aircraft availability must exceed 85-90%.
The global helicopter leasing market is projected to grow from $4.99 billion in 2024 to $10.13 billion by 2032, reflecting a 9.3% compound annual growth rate. North America is expected to hold a 36.04% market share. Leasing offers operators a way to reduce capital expenditures and mitigate risks associated with asset ownership. Milestone, backed by AerCap, signed 21 lease agreements in Q2 2024 alone, reinforcing its leadership position. The PBH model further differentiates Milestone by offering bundled financial and technical services, from engine leasing to fleet advisory.
This integrated approach is increasingly vital as operators demand mission-specific configurations and predictable cost structures. The Leonardo-Milestone agreement addresses these needs while enhancing asset lifecycle value for both parties.
One of the most forward-looking aspects of the agreement is its emphasis on digital infrastructure. Leonardo’s Diagnostic Services Tower in Sesto Calende, Italy, provides real-time fleet monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities. These tools allow for early detection of potential issues, reducing unscheduled downtime by an estimated 30-40%.
Data from Milestone’s diverse operations will feed into Leonardo’s algorithms, creating a feedback loop that improves maintenance accuracy over time. This is particularly beneficial for high-intensity missions such as offshore transport and firefighting, where reliability is paramount.
As the aviation industry embraces digital transformation, the integration of predictive tools into leasing frameworks could become a standard practice, offering both operational and economic advantages.
“Milestone and Leonardo have worked closely together for almost 15 years… This agreement underscores our ongoing commitment to delivering their aircraft to our customers across a diverse range of missions.”
, Kieran Hannan, Head of Fleet & Technical Operations, Milestone Aviation
The framework agreement between Milestone Aviation and Leonardo Helicopters represents more than just a business transaction, it’s a strategic evolution in helicopter leasing. By standardizing PBH implementation across a diverse fleet and customer base, the partnership enhances operational efficiency, cost predictability, and maintenance reliability.
Looking ahead, this model could serve as a blueprint for future OEM-lessor collaborations. As the industry continues to digitalize and shift toward sustainable operations, integrated service models like this will likely become the norm. The emphasis on renewable energy missions also positions both companies to play a key role in the global energy transition, ensuring that aviation remains a critical enabler of progress. What is Power-by-the-Hour (PBH)? Which helicopter models are included in the Milestone-Leonardo agreement? How does this agreement benefit operators? Sources: Milestone Aviation, Leonardo Helicopters, Fortune Business Insights, FlightGlobal
Milestone Aviation and Leonardo Helicopters: A New Chapter in Helicopter Leasing
Evolution of a Strategic Partnership
From Initial Collaborations to a Global Framework
The Rise of Power-by-the-Hour Models
Fleet Capabilities and Mission Diversity
Market Dynamics and Strategic Implications
Offshore Energy and Renewable Transition
Growth of the Helicopter Leasing Market
Digitalization and Predictive Maintenance
Conclusion and Future Outlook
FAQ
PBH is a maintenance contract model where operators pay based on actual flight hours instead of fixed lease payments, offering predictable costs and improved service reliability.
The agreement covers the AW169, AW139, and AW189 models, used in missions ranging from offshore energy to EMS and law enforcement.
Operators gain access to standardized maintenance protocols, predictive analytics, and reduced operational costs, improving aircraft availability and mission readiness.
Photo Credit: Milestone Aviation
Business Aviation
Cirrus Aircraft Leads 2025 General Aviation with Record Deliveries
Cirrus Aircraft delivered 797 planes in 2025, led by the SR Series and Vision Jet, and introduced FAA-approved autonomous emergency landing tech.
This article is based on an official press release from Cirrus Aircraft, supplemented by industry data from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA).
Cirrus Aircraft has firmly solidified its position as the leading manufacturers in the general aviation (GA) sector, delivering more personal aircraft than any other company in 2025. According to the company’s official press release and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) 2025 year-end report, Cirrus achieved a 9% year-over-year increase in deliveries, capturing a 24.7% global market share.
The manufacturer’s sustained growth is anchored by its two flagship product lines: the SR Series of piston aircraft and the Vision Jet. In 2025, the SR Series celebrated its 24th consecutive year as the best-selling high-performance single-engine piston aircraft, while the Vision Jet marked its eighth consecutive year as the best-selling general aviation jet. Beyond sheer volume, Cirrus introduced groundbreaking safety advancements to the consumer market, most notably the integration of FAA-approved autonomous emergency landing technology in a single-engine piston aircraft.
As the broader general aviation market experienced robust growth throughout the year, Cirrus’s performance outpaced many competitors, placing the company in an elite tier of U.S. manufacturers exceeding $1 billion in annual revenue. We review the delivery statistics, technological milestones, and corporate expansions that defined Cirrus Aircraft’s record-breaking year.
According to the GAMA 2025 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report, Cirrus delivered a total of 797 aircraft in 2025. This volume generated approximately $1.18 billion in airplane billings for the company. By expanding its global Market-Analysis by 1.6 percentage points to 24.7%, Cirrus demonstrated significant resilience and consumer demand.
The SR Series, comprising the SR20, SR22, and SR22T, accounted for 691 of the total units delivered. Notably, the SR22T emerged as the most shipped aircraft model globally across all manufacturers in 2025, with 384 units delivered. The company also celebrated a major historical milestone during the year: the delivery of its 11,000th total SR Series aircraft.
The Vision Jet (SF50) also saw unprecedented demand, with a record-breaking 106 units delivered in 2025. This performance contributed heavily to the broader industry’s surge in business jet deliveries.
“Cirrus continues to create momentum in Personal Aviation through its leadership in product innovation, ownership offerings and new services. Owning and operating a Cirrus unlocks opportunities and grows economies,” stated Zean Nielsen, Chief Executive Officer of Cirrus, in the company’s press release.
Cirrus’s individual success mirrors a healthy global general aviation market. The GAMA 2025 report indicates that total global airplane deliveries rose 2.2% to 3,230 units. Furthermore, total preliminary aircraft deliveries reached a record value of $35.7 billion, representing a 14.6% increase from 2024. Piston airplane shipments saw a slight increase to 1,782 units industry-wide, while business jet deliveries surged 11.8% to 854 units. Cirrus served as a primary driver in both of these categories.
“The state of the general aviation manufacturing industry remains steadfast. We continue to see robust numbers of total aircraft delivered as well as annual billings eclipsing $35 billion,” noted James Viola, President and CEO of GAMA, regarding the industry’s overall health.
A central component of Cirrus’s 2025 narrative is the introduction of the SR Series G7+, unveiled in May 2025. According to the manufacturer, the G7+ is the world’s first single-engine piston aircraft equipped with Garmin’s Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland system. Previously, this FAA-certified technology was limited exclusively to turbine-powered aircraft.
The Safe Return system is designed to mitigate the risk of pilot incapacitation. In an emergency, any passenger in the cabin can activate the system by pressing a dedicated button on the overhead panel. Once engaged, the aircraft autonomously communicates with Air Traffic Control, navigates around hazardous weather and terrain, locates the nearest suitable airport, lands, comes to a complete stop, and shuts down the engine. The system is also capable of activating automatically if it detects that the pilot is unresponsive.
Cirrus now markets its new aircraft as featuring a “Total Safety Solution.” This standard trifecta includes the Safe Return Emergency Autoland, the Perspective Touch+™ flight deck, and the legacy Cirrus Airframe Parachute System® (CAPS®). According to company data, worldwide flight time on Cirrus aircraft now exceeds 19 million hours, and the CAPS parachute system has successfully returned 290 people home safely in emergency situations to date.
Additional Safety and operational features introduced with the G7+ include Runway Occupancy Awareness (ROA) to help prevent runway incursions, Smart Pitot Heat, and Automatic Database Updates facilitated through the Cirrus IQ PRO application.
To support its increasing production rates and customer base, Cirrus has actively invested in corporate and operational expansion. The company is currently expanding its Manufacturing facility in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Additionally, Cirrus recently opened a new location in McKinney, Texas, dedicated to sales, aircraft management, and flight training.
On the training front, the manufacturer launched the “Cirrus Instrument Rating Program” to assist owners in advancing their all-weather flying capabilities. They also introduced “Cirrus Next™,” a streamlined trade-in and upgrade pathway for current owners, and expanded their Vision Jet flight training simulator capabilities at their facility in Scottsdale, Arizona.
These expansions are partially fueled by the company’s recent financial maneuvers. In July 2024, Cirrus completed a listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, raising approximately $193 million to support ongoing research, development, and infrastructure growth. We observe that Cirrus Aircraft’s commanding 24.7% market share is not merely a result of legacy brand recognition, but rather a calculated strategy to lower the barrier to entry for personal aviation. By integrating commercial-grade, autonomous safety features, like Garmin’s Safe Return, into consumer piston aircraft, Cirrus is directly addressing the primary psychological hurdle of general aviation: the fear of pilot incapacitation. The fact that the SR22T is the most shipped aircraft globally suggests that buyers are willing to pay a premium for this “Total Safety Solution.” Furthermore, the company’s $193 million capital raise in 2024 appears to be effectively deployed, as evidenced by their expanding physical footprint in North-America and Texas, ensuring they have the infrastructure to meet this record-breaking demand.
How many aircraft did Cirrus deliver in 2025? What is the Garmin Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland system? What was the most popular general aviation aircraft in 2025? How many lives has the Cirrus parachute system saved? Sources: Cirrus Aircraft Press Release, GAMA 2025 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report
Cirrus Aircraft Dominates 2025 General Aviation Market with Record Deliveries and Autonomous Safety Tech
2025 Delivery and Financial Milestones
Breaking Down the Numbers
Broader Industry Context
Advancing General Aviation Safety
The SR Series G7+ and Autonomous Landing
The “Total Safety Solution”
Corporate Expansion and Training Initiatives
Growing the Footprint
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
According to GAMA data, Cirrus delivered a total of 797 aircraft in 2025, representing a 9% year-over-year increase.
It is an FAA-certified autonomous flight system available on the new SR Series G7+. If the pilot becomes incapacitated, a passenger can press a button to have the aircraft autonomously navigate, communicate with air traffic control, and safely land at the nearest suitable airport.
The Cirrus SR22T was the most shipped aircraft model globally across all manufacturers in 2025, with 384 units delivered.
According to the company, the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) has successfully returned 290 people home safely in emergency situations.
Photo Credit: Cirrus Aircraft
Business Aviation
Gulfstream G600 Reaches 200th Delivery with Key Certifications
Gulfstream delivers its 200th G600 business jet, highlighting fleet performance and new EASA steep-approach certification for London City Airport.
This article is based on an official press release from Gulfstream Aerospace Corp.
Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has officially reached a major milestone for its G600 program, announcing the 200th customer delivery of the award-winning business jet. The aircraft, which was outfitted at the manufacturer’s St. Louis facility, was recently handed over to a North America-based customer.
According to the official press release, this delivery underscores the sustained demand and operational maturity of the G600 fleet. Since its introduction, the aircraft has accumulated significant flight time and established numerous performance records across the globe, solidifying its reputation in the large-cabin business aviation sector.
The G600 fleet has proven its reliability and speed in active service. Gulfstream reports that the global fleet has logged more than 197,000 flight hours and completed over 87,000 landings to date.
Speed and efficiency remain key selling points for the twin-engine jet. The company noted in its release that the G600 has amassed 95 city-pair speed records. Earlier this year, the aircraft broke a decade-old record by flying from Aspen, Colorado, to London City Airport in the U.K. in just 7 hours and 42 minutes, maintaining an impressive average speed of Mach 0.91.
“Interest in the G600 remains incredibly strong worldwide as customers continue to be impressed with its remarkable capabilities,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “Reaching the 200th delivery reflects the program’s continued momentum while reinforcing the aircraft’s proven maturity and reliability.”
The 200th delivery follows closely on the heels of regulatory advancements for the aircraft family. In January 2026, Gulfstream announced that both the G600 and its sister ship, the G500, secured steep-approach landing certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This approval is critical for operators looking to access challenging airfields, notably including London City Airport.
Beyond its performance metrics, the G600 is recognized for its highly customizable and award-winning interior design. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the cabin can be configured with up to four distinct living areas, accommodating a maximum of 19 passengers.
The aircraft offers a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.925. For long-haul missions, it can cover 6,600 nautical miles (12,223 kilometers) at a cruise speed of Mach 0.85, or 5,600 nautical miles (10,371 kilometers) at a faster Mach 0.90 cruise. At AirPro News, we view the 200-delivery mark as a strong indicator of the G600’s solid positioning in the long-range business jet market. The recent EASA steep-approach certification significantly enhances the aircraft’s utility for European operators and international clients needing direct access to financial hubs like London. The combination of high-speed cruise capabilities, proven dispatch reliability, and flexible cabin zoning continues to make the G600 a formidable competitor in its class.
How many G600 aircraft have been delivered? What is the maximum range of the Gulfstream G600? Can the G600 land at London City Airport?
Fleet Performance and Operational Milestones
Expanding Capabilities and Cabin Features
Recent Certifications
Interior and Range Specifications
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Gulfstream has delivered 200 G600 aircraft to customers worldwide as of March 2026.
The G600 can fly 6,600 nautical miles at Mach 0.85 or 5,600 nautical miles at Mach 0.90.
Yes, the G600 received EASA certification for steep-approach landings in January 2026, allowing it to operate at London City Airport.
Sources
Photo Credit: Gulfstream
Business Aviation
NBAA Advocates for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Policies on Capitol Hill
NBAA leaders met with Congress to promote bipartisan bills supporting sustainable aviation fuel and the industry’s net-zero emissions goal by 2050.
This article is based on an official press release from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).
Business aviation leaders converged on Washington, D.C., to advocate for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) policies and the industry’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. According to an official press release from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), the March 18 “CLIMBING. FAST.” Capitol Hill Fly-In brought together professionals from across the country for a daylong series of meetings with congressional lawmakers and their staff.
The NBAA stated that the event was designed to highlight the industry’s essential role in supporting 1.3 million American jobs and generating nearly $340 billion in economic output. Throughout the fly-in, delegates emphasized the importance of strengthening American energy independence and supporting rural economies through the advancement of clean fuels and sustainable technologies.
A primary focus of the Capitol Hill meetings was the scaling of sustainable aviation fuel production. Members of the NBAA’s Environmental Committee urged Congress to advance key bipartisan legislation that would provide long-term incentives for SAF producers.
Specifically, the organization advocated for the Securing America’s Fuels Act (H.R. 6518/S. 3759), which aims to restore the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit for SAF to $1.75 per gallon and extend it through 2033. The committee also pushed for the Farm to Fly Act (H.R. 1719, S. 114), a bill that would designate SAF as an advanced biofuel eligible for support programs under the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
“The reduced tax credit has made it more financially advantageous for producers to make renewable diesel instead of SAF. Restoring the credit to $1.75 is critical to give producers the confidence to continue building production capacity.”
According to the NBAA, business aviation has already reduced its carbon footprint by 40% over the past four decades, with modern aircraft operating approximately 35% more efficiently than previous generations. The association noted that SAF can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.
To push these legislative priorities forward, industry representatives held targeted discussions with key policymakers and committee staff. The NBAA detailed that delegates met with a representative for California’s 40th congressional district, alongside staff members for several prominent lawmakers.
According to the release, the delegation met with staff for House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-6-MN), Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ), Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-13-FL), Rep. Randy Fine (R-6-FL), Rep. Nancy Mace (R-1-SC), Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-23-FL), Rep. Luz Rivas (D-29-CA), Rep. Dwight Evans (D-3-PA), and Rep. Buddy Carter (R-1-GA). The committee also focused heavily on the legislative bodies responsible for tax incentives and financial policy. They met with Michael Hawthorne and Grace Enda from the Senate Finance Committee, which is chaired by Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) and whose ranking member is Sen. Wyden (D-OR). Additionally, discussions were held with Nick O’Boyle and Andrew Grossman from the House Committee on Ways and Means, chaired by Rep. Jason Smith (R-8-MO) and whose ranking member is Rep. Richard Neal (D-1-MA).
“Members of Congress need to hear directly from their constituents about why these priorities matter. Today’s CLIMBING. FAST. fly-in demonstrated that business aviation leaders across every segment of our industry… are united behind policies that would accelerate progress toward net-zero emissions.”
We note that the targeted meetings with the Senate Finance Committee and the House Committee on Ways and Means underscore the aviation industry’s current strategic priority: securing favorable tax frameworks. The push to restore the Section 45Z credit to $1.75 per gallon highlights a significant economic hurdle in the green transition. Without competitive tax incentives, fuel producers naturally gravitate toward more profitable alternatives like renewable diesel, leaving the aviation sector struggling to secure the SAF volumes necessary to meet its 2050 net-zero targets. By mobilizing professionals from across the country, the NBAA is attempting to reframe aviation sustainability not just as an environmental imperative, but as a driver of rural economic growth and domestic energy independence.
According to the NBAA, CLIMBING. FAST. is a branded, multi-platform industrywide advocacy campaign designed to showcase the societal and economic benefits of business aviation to policymakers, while highlighting the sector’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The Securing America’s Fuels Act (H.R. 6518/S. 3759) is bipartisan legislation that would restore the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit for sustainable aviation fuel to $1.75 per gallon and extend the credit through 2033, incentivizing increased production.
Advocating for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Legislation
Engaging with Congressional Leaders
AirPro News analysis
FAQ: Business Aviation and Sustainability
What is the CLIMBING. FAST. initiative?
What is the Securing America’s Fuels Act?
Photo Credit: City of Washington DC
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