Bristow Group has officially introduced an Airbus H160 helicopter into service in Nigeria, marking the aircraft’s first operational deployment for the energy sector and rescue services by the company in Nigeria and across the African continent. The Airbus H160 Nigeria launch highlights a new phase in offshore aviation support, with the advanced helicopter expected to improve logistics operations in one of Africa’s busiest oil and gas markets.
The unveiling took place in Lagos before regulators, energy sector stakeholders and aviation industry leaders. The new aircraft has been positioned as a next-generation solution for offshore transportation, search and rescue operations, and emergency medical services.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director of Bristow Helicopters, Captain Dapo Oyeleke, said the acquisition reflects the company’s continued focus on safety, operational excellence and innovation in challenging offshore environments. He also linked the Airbus H160 Nigeria launch to Bristow’s more than six decades of operations in the country.
“For over six decades, Bristow has been the trusted wing and backbone of Nigeria’s offshore energy logistics. From our strategic hub here in Lagos, to the vital operational bases across the Niger Delta, we have continued to fly through eras of change, every day, without fail, with purpose and with an unwavering commitment to safety and excellence,” Oyeleke said.
Bristow’s Senior Manager, Operations and Service Delivery, Clement Falayi, described the helicopter’s arrival as a renewed commitment to the company’s safety standards.
“Today, Bristow is reinforcing the promise of safety. By launching the Airbus H160 right here in Nigeria, its very first operational home in the energy sector in Africa, Bristow is once again, bringing into service, and directly to our clients’ doorsteps, aircraft with the highest global standards, equipped with full IOGP 690-compliant next-generation technology, in one of Africa’s fastest-growing oil and gas markets,” he noted.
The Airbus H160 is recognised as one of the world’s most advanced helicopters, combining high safety standards with comfort and efficiency. It can support various missions, including offshore transport, rescue operations and emergency medical services.
Oyeleke said the introduction of the helicopter would also strengthen Nigerian content development by creating opportunities for local pilots, engineers and technical personnel.
“This launch is a definitive victory for Nigerian content and local capacity. By bringing the H160 to Nigeria, we are opening doors of global opportunity for our local pilots, engineers, and technical teams. We are investing heavily in improving our home-grown talent to master one of the most advanced commercial aircraft on the planet,” he said.
Bristow also reaffirmed its commitment to developing local aviation expertise, building on its record of training more than 600 Nigerian pilots and engineers while supporting recruitment and skills development programmes linked to NCDMB and Chevron’s HCD initiatives.
How could the introduction of the Airbus H160 Nigeria service transform offshore aviation and local talent development in the country?
