Milestone Aviation Group has secured purchase and leaseback agreements with Bristow Group for two Leonardo AW139 helicopters, which are to be deployed for search and rescue (SAR) missions in the UK.

These helicopters, which have been recently delivered to Bristow, are equipped to enhance the company’s SAR capabilities.

Milestone CEO Pat Sheedy said: “We are very pleased to strengthen our long-term partnership with Bristow through the lease of these two new state-of-the-art AW139s.

“We are proud to support their efforts and wish them every success as they continue to expand their fleet and strengthen life-saving SAR operations across the UK.” 

Bristow government services chief operating officer Alan Corbett stated: “We appreciate Milestone’s support as we continue to transition the aircraft and capabilities needed to deliver vital search and rescue services in the UK.” 

AerCap subsidiary Milestone Aviation provides a variety of financial solutions to helicopter operators worldwide.

The company’s services include operating leases, leasebacks, secured debt financing, engine leasing, and fleet advisory.

With a client base spanning approximately 35 countries, Milestone Aviation supports sectors such as SAR, offshore oil and gas, and emergency medical services.

Bristow Group offers aviation services and vertical flight solutions to government entities and offshore energy companies.

Its services encompass personnel transportation, SAR, medevac, and other helicopter-related services.

AerCap operates in the aviation leasing sector by providing fleet solutions to around 300 clients globally.

Listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol AER, the company’s headquarters are in Dublin, and it operates additional offices worldwide.