Helicopter operator NHV on December 18 inaugurated a new base in Aberdeen, UK, and said it is to receive another three Airbus Helicopters H175s shortly. The Ostend, Belgium-headquartered company has been rolling out its “strategic plan to become a sizeable, alternative player” in the North Sea offshore market.
The Aberdeen base—a five-year project—comprises a passenger terminal, offices and a 26,000-sq-ft hangar. The first contract there is with Chevron North Sea Limited and will start on January 1 with two H175s. NHV recognizes market conditions are difficult due to the drop of the oil price. Nevertheless, it estimates the addition of one AgustaWestland AW139 and a total four H175s in 2015 will position it well for oil-and-gas operations. An additional four H175s are to be delivered to NHV next year.
Meanwhile, in a rebranding move, Blueway Offshore Norge and DanCopter have been integrated into the NHV name. Airlift and Vertech, also part of the NHV Group, will continue to operate under their current brands. The group employs 650 and has a fleet of 62 helicopters.