Bristow Helicopters in the UK has announce the launch of Bristow Logistics Services Shetland (BLSS) as a new offering to transport oil and gas workers through Scatsta Airport. This will be run in parallel with the existing Integrated Aviation Consortium (IAC) work they have had at the airport for the last 20 years, and will use the same aircraft.  IAC and BLSS leverages the opportunities provided by the close working of Bristow Helicopters and sister company Eastern Airways, whereby they fly oil workers from Aberdeen to Scatsa on fixed wing, and then by helicopter offshore.  As Bristow is the only helicopter operator at Scatsta, the turn around time is minimised.

The opportunity that BLSS creates is for oil companies outside IAC.  These organisations can now contract with Bristow and have the same service that the IAC companies have previously enjoyed.  The IAC comprises six major oil companies: BP and BP Sullom Voe, CNR International, Petrofac, Shell, TAQA and Total

Bristow is responsible for the overall management of flying operations, providing a single point of contact for helicopter, fixed wing and airport management services through Scatsta.

Speaking about the service, Alan Corbett, managing director of Bristow Helicopters said: “We are extremely proud of our Shetland Islands heritage and continue to work hard to maintain reliable operations at both Sumburgh and Scatsta airports. This new partnership is also important for the local economy and demonstrates our commitment to the area.  We also have additional back-up support from our great team at Sumburgh Airport to assist when required.”

Bristow confirmed to HeliHub.com that they have no current plans to move helicopters from Aberdeen to Scatsa at this time for BLSS. The fleet at Scatsa currently numbers six Sikorsky S-92s, supplemented by a further two based at Sumburgh.  Outside the oil and gas production arena, Bristow also operates two SAR Sikorsky S92s from Sumburgh.

Jeremy Parkin – HeliHub.com