Bristow will continue to provide essential transportation and emergency services in the Barents Sea thanks to a long-term agreement with Equinor and Vår Energi.
With increased activity in the northern region of Norway, especially in the Johan Castberg and Goliath fields, logistical needs have increased considerably. To ensure safe transit of personnel to and from the offshore facilities, Equinor and Vår Energi have signed a contract with Bristow that will ensure operational continuity and safety in the area.
Flight and SAR contract from Hammerfest
The agreement is effective September 1, 2026, with an initial term of three years and a possible extension for an additional two years. Its total value is estimated at approximately NOK 1.9 billion. It includes both scheduled transport flights and search and rescue (SAR) services (SAR) from the strategic base at Hammerfest.
Operational relevance and regional context
Activity in the Barents Sea has intensified since the Johan Castberg field became operational in 2025. Bristow currently operates transport helicopters and a SAR team in the Norwegian far north, being a key player for air traffic moving around 3400 passengers per month in that region alone.
Equinor, which handles around 320,000 passengers annually across the Norwegian continental shelf, works with three airline operators: Bristow NorwayCHC Helicopter Service and Lufttransport RW AS. This new contract strengthens its maritime emergency response capability and ensures stability in an area of growing energy interest.
Safety, efficiency and long-term collaboration
The SAR component not only enhances preparedness for contingencies, but also provides coverage for other maritime activities such as fishing. The continued collaboration between Bristow and the energy companies reaffirms the commitment to operational safety and sustainability of operations in the Norwegian Arctic.
Source and photo: Equinor