Bristow Receives First Airbus H160 Helicopters for Nigerian Offshore Transport

This article is based on an official press release from Airbus.

On March 10, 2026, Bristow Group Inc. officially took delivery of its first two Airbus H160 medium-twin helicopters. According to an official press release from Airbus, these next-generation aircraft are leased through Milestone Aviation Group and are currently undergoing final preparations in Nigeria before entering active service.

The delivery marks a significant milestone for offshore energy transportation in West Africa. The two helicopters are part of a larger five-aircraft lease agreement designed to support mission-critical flights for the region’s oil and gas sector. Airbus confirmed that the remaining three aircraft are scheduled for delivery in the coming months.

We note that the introduction of the H160 to the African continent represents a major step in the ongoing modernization of offshore aviation support. By integrating these advanced rotorcraft, operators are aiming to bring enhanced efficiency, reduced emissions, and improved safety to demanding maritime environments.

Fleet Modernization and Strategic Deployment

Expanding Capabilities in West Africa

The deployment of the H160 in Nigeria builds upon Bristow’s extensive historical footprint in the region. Bristow Helicopters (Nigeria) Limited has been operating since 1960, providing essential aviation services to major integrated offshore energy companies. Introducing a clean-sheet aircraft design to this specific market reinforces the company’s operational capabilities in West Africa.

Company leadership emphasized the strategic advantages of the new fleet. In the official release, Bristow highlighted the aircraft’s specific suitability for the region’s logistical demands.

“The introduction of the H160 into Nigeria represents a meaningful step forward for our offshore operations in West Africa. This aircraft brings a combination of advanced technology, operational flexibility, and improved fuel efficiency,” stated Stu Stavely, Chief Operating Officer of Offshore Energy Services at Bristow Group.

The Milestone Aviation Partnership

The foundation for this delivery was laid in November 2025, when the lease agreement was originally announced during the Dubai Airshow. According to the provided source material, Milestone Aviation Group is the first lessor to introduce the H160 aircraft type into Bristow’s global fleet.

Milestone Aviation Group, a prominent global helicopter leasing company, focuses heavily on investing in new-technology medium and super-medium helicopters tailored for mission-critical sectors.

“Milestone is pleased to support Bristow with the lease of five new H160s… Our continued investment in next generation medium and supermedium helicopters ensures our customers have access to the most efficient and capable aircraft,” said Pat Sheedy, Chief Executive Officer of Milestone Aviation Group.

Technical Profile of the Airbus H160

Performance and Environmental Efficiency

The Airbus H160 is a medium-class twin-engine helicopter explicitly tailored for offshore energy missions, search and rescue (SAR), and emergency medical services (EMS). According to Airbus specifications, the aircraft is configured to carry one or two pilots alongside up to 12 passengers, which serves as the optimal layout for offshore crew changes.

Powered by two Safran Arrano 1A turboshaft engines, each generating 1,280 shaft horsepower, the H160 offers a recommended cruise speed of 138 knots (255 km/h) and a maximum range of 480 nautical miles (890 km). Furthermore, Airbus reports that the fully composite airframe and advanced engine technology deliver an 18% reduction in fuel burn compared to previous-generation helicopters in its class.

“This delivery underscores our commitment to supporting the energy sector with a helicopter that sets new standards in safety, comfort, and competitiveness with its 18% reduction in fuel burn,” remarked Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.

Advanced Avionics and Safety Features

Operational safety in offshore environments relies heavily on advanced avionics. The H160 is equipped with the Helionix avionics suite, which features a four-axis autopilot and automated systems designed specifically to reduce pilot workload during demanding offshore approaches.

Additionally, the aircraft utilizes a canted Fenestron tail rotor and a biplane tailplane stabilizer. Airbus notes that these design choices significantly reduce the helicopter’s external acoustic footprint while improving overall handling. Its compact rotor diameter of 13.4 meters also allows it to operate efficiently from smaller offshore helidecks.

AirPro News analysis

The offshore helicopter transport industry is currently navigating a critical fleet renewal phase. For years, the medium-class offshore market relied heavily on legacy platforms. Following Sikorsky’s decision to end production of the widely utilized S-76, operators have been actively seeking modern replacements. We observe that the Airbus H160, alongside competitors like the Leonardo AW139, is strategically positioned to fill this operational void.

The global rollout of the H160 is accelerating. Having received EASA certification in 2020 and FAA validation in 2023, the aircraft is now transitioning from the testing and certification phases into active, heavy-duty commercial-aircraft service. Beyond its introduction in Africa, the H160 is being integrated into North American offshore operations and is securing substantial orders in emerging markets like China. Bristow’s adoption of the H160 in Nigeria serves as a strong indicator of the industry’s confidence in the platform’s maturity and reliability for mission-critical energy support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Airbus H160 primarily used for in Nigeria?
The Airbus H160 helicopters delivered to Bristow Group will be deployed to support mission-critical offshore transportation for the energy sector, specifically moving crews to and from oil and gas platforms.

How many H160 helicopters is Bristow leasing?
Bristow has agreed to lease a total of five Airbus H160 helicopters from Milestone Aviation Group. The first two were delivered on March 10, 2026, with the remaining three scheduled for delivery in the coming months.

What makes the H160 different from older helicopters?
According to Airbus, the H160 features a fully composite airframe, advanced Helionix avionics, and Safran Arrano 1A engines that provide an 18% reduction in fuel burn compared to previous-generation helicopters in its class. It also features a canted Fenestron tail rotor for reduced noise and improved handling.

Sources

• Airbus Press Release