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Milestone Signs Framework Agreement with Leonardo Helicopters

Milestone Signs Framework Agreement with Leonardo Helicopters
Milestone Aviation Group Limited (“Milestone”), a global leader in helicopter leasing, has formalized a framework agreement with Leonardo S.p.A (“Leonardo”), a distinguished manufacturer and designer of helicopters. This landmark agreement, the first between the two companies, covers Milestone’s extensive fleet of over 100 Leonardo helicopters, including the AW169, AW139, and AW189 models.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency through Partnership
Central to the collaboration is the introduction of a streamlined Power-by-the-Hour (PBH) transition solution designed to improve operational efficiency for Milestone’s customers. This initiative is expected to deliver significant benefits across a variety of sectors, such as offshore operations, search and rescue (SAR), emergency medical services (EMS), and the renewable energy industry. Kieran Hannan, Head of Fleet & Technical Operations at Milestone Aviation, emphasized the importance of the partnership, noting the longstanding relationship between the two companies. He stated, “Milestone and Leonardo have worked closely together for almost 15 years, and we are proud to count more than 100 AW169, AW139, and AW189 aircraft in our fleet. This agreement underscores our ongoing commitment to collaborating with Leonardo to deliver their aircraft to our customers across a diverse range of missions.”
Market Context and Strategic Implications
The agreement arrives amid intensifying competition within the helicopter leasing and manufacturing sectors. Competitors such as Airbus Helicopters have recently secured framework agreements, including a significant contract with Norwegian Air Ambulance for the acquisition of H145 helicopters. These developments reflect a dynamic market environment where manufacturers and lessors are actively pursuing contracts across both civil and defense domains.
Industry analysts suggest that Milestone’s partnership with Leonardo may also attract interest from defense sectors, particularly given Leonardo’s joint venture with Baykar to explore unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) opportunities. At the same time, competitors are advancing their own strategic collaborations; for instance, NH Industries is collaborating with Airbus and Leonardo to investigate future upgrades for the NH90 helicopter platform.
As the helicopter leasing market continues to evolve, the agreement between Milestone and Leonardo positions both companies to meet the shifting demands of operators worldwide while navigating the challenges of an increasingly competitive landscape.

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