Sikorsky's S-92 has continued its recent strong sales performance with an order from US-based lessor and operator Era Group for four of the 12t helicopters, with options covering a further five aircraft.
Worth an approximate $129 million, deliveries of the firm order are scheduled from the first quarter of 2016.
The deal also represents the first time that Era has operated the S-92, having previously been a loyal customer of the Airbus Helicopters EC225 in the heavy-medium segment, with nine of the latter type in its fleet.
Sten Gustafson, chief executive of Era, says: "Era is delighted to announce the introduction of the S-92 helicopter to the Era fleet, representing a continuation of our long-standing relationship with Sikorsky and the next stage in Era's fleet development.
"The S92 provides further diversification for deepwater oil and gas missions for our operating and contract-leasing customers around the world."
Sikorsky has enjoyed strong sales of the S-92 over the past 12 months, as Airbus Helicopters has struggled with safety issues surrounding the EC225. During the period the US airframer has won orders from key customers including operators Bristow Group and CHC Helicopter and lessor Milestone Aviation.
Its backlog for the type now stands at 65, according to Flightglobal's Ascend Online Fleets database.
Era Group also has outstanding orders for a number of AgustaWestland helicopters, with deliveries of the first of its 10 AW189s due to take place this year, according to the company's most recent SEC filings.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
