LCI, an aviation company, has commenced the delivery of the first specialized offshore wind helicopters in the United States. These helicopters will be leased under long-term agreements with HeliService USA, facilitating a new era of sustainable energy supply in the country. The helicopters will be operated by HeliService USA to support Ørsted and General Electric contracts based in Quonset, Rhode Island, and Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. Their primary function will be to enable safe and efficient crew changes and wind turbine maintenance in these locations.
The Leonardo AW169 helicopters, including one factory-built new machine, hold a value exceeding $20 million. These aircraft are designed to carry out a diverse range of mission-critical operations. Equipped with hoisting systems, they can transport technicians to and from wind turbines and are capable of operating in various sea conditions.
LCI's CEO, Jaspal Jandu, expressed gratitude in being able to facilitate the United States' inaugural offshore wind helicopter operations, emphasizing their mission-critical nature and social responsibility. Jandu highlighted the environmental benefits of helicopters, which emit up to five times less carbon dioxide per passenger compared to offshore crew transfer vessels. These helicopters are poised to support the growth of the promising new energy future.
LCI is pleased to expand its partnership with HeliService USA, recognizing their exceptional track record, positioning them as a natural and trustworthy operator for the emerging offshore wind sector in the United States.
Michael Tosi, Managing Director of HeliService USA, emphasized the indispensability of helicopters in optimizing offshore wind operations and expressed enthusiasm about introducing established procedures and a robust safety culture to the clean energy industry. Through collaboration with LCI and drawing upon the experience of HeliService, the largest offshore wind helicopter operator in Europe, HeliService USA looks forward to utilizing these state-of-the-art assets to support their customer's offshore wind operations.
The introduction of dedicated offshore wind helicopters in the United States marks a significant milestone in the country's pursuit of sustainable energy sources. With their advanced capabilities and eco-friendly features, these helicopters have the potential to revolutionize the offshore wind sector and contribute to a cleaner and greener future.
