Equinor has announced the signing of new contracts for the offshore airlift of offshore personnel airlift from its base in Bergen from its base in Bergen, involving CHC Helikopter Service AS and Lufttransport RW AS. The operations will cover routes to key platforms such as Troll, Gullfaks, Oseberg, Martin Linge, Statfjord, Kvitebjørn and Valemon.
New aircraft and redistribution of resources
CHC will be responsible for three Sikorsky S-92 helicopters.. Two of them will be redeployed from Sola thanks to the addition of AW189 models at that base, and a third S-92 helicopter will join from other operations on the Norwegian platform.
For its part, Lufttransport will initially operate two AW139 helicopters, which will be replaced by AW189 aircraft starting in 2027, following delivery by the manufacturer. The company has approval from the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority to operate both models.
Offshore flight safety, training and verifications
Safety has been central to the decision. Both CHC and Lufttransport have previous experience with Equinor and are familiar with the operational and regulatory requirements of the Norwegian offshore environment. Pilot and technician training programs are currently underway, with official approval, and preliminary flights have been made to various facilities.
Equinor has initiated a comprehensive verification process prior to the entry into force of the contracts in May 2026. The inspections will cover human resources, operating manuals, infrastructure, physical security, cybersecurity and health, safety and environmental compliance.
Impact on Bergen logistics
With almost 5,000 flights executed from Flesland in 2024, the Bergen base represents Equinor’s busiest logistics hub in Norway. The new operational scheme will maintain and improve the efficiency of transporting more than 320,000 passengers annually, spread over more than 24,000 flight hours.
These contracts, which may be extended to 2030, reinforce Equinor’s strategy to ensure reliable air service to its customers. reliable air service and aligned with industry standards in offshore areas.
Source and photo: Equinor
