Bristow wraps up acquisition of British International Helicopter Services

Bristow Group, an NYSE-listed vertical flight solutions provider, has wrapped up the previously announced acquisition of British International Helicopter Services (BIH), a UK-based operator of civil and military registered aircraft.

The financial terms of the all-cash deal were not disclosed.

Presently, British International Helicopter Services’ workforce of over 110 people provides combined search and rescue (SAR) and support helicopter services for the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD). The company has operations in the Falkland Islands and offers fleet operational sea training (FOST) helicopter support for the Royal Navy in the UK.

Currently, British International Helicopter Services has a fleet of a couple of AW189 SAR-configured helicopters, one AS365 helicopter, and three S61 helicopters that carry out various freight and passenger transport apart from hoist operations.

Bristow Group acquires British International Helicopter Services. Photo courtesy of British International Helicopters.

Through the acquisition, Bristow Group expects to further boost its global government services offering. The company will integrate British International Helicopter Services into its operations in the UK, where the latter will operate under the Bristow name and brand.

Chris Bradshaw — Bristow Group President and CEO said: “This acquisition further enhances our government services business, and we welcome our new, highly capable and experienced team members into the Bristow family.

“We will now build off BIH’s longstanding history and strong relationships with the U.K. Ministry of Defence and will continue providing safe and reliable service to both military and civilian markets.”