Erickson and Bell Textron have signed agreements to initiate the transfer of the type certificates for the model 214 ST and B/B1 helicopters to Erickson Incorporated. The transfer will be processed through the FAA and is expected to be completed near the end of the year.

The agreements replace the previous licence and product support agreement signed between the companies in 2015. As one of the largest operators of 214STs, Erickson is poised to take the next step in supporting the performance improvements and operational sustainability of the 214 platform as it did for the S-64 platforms it acquired in 1992. Erickson will work with Bell to transfer the key functions and processes remaining to enable full support of the type certificates.

“The 214 is a great utility rotary-wing platform. We look forward to applying our innovative spirit and operational experience to chart a future for the aircraft like we have done with the S-64 Air Crane helicopter over the past 30 years. The 214 models are a welcome addition to the Erickson portfolio of supported aircraft,” comments Erickson CEO Doug Kitani.

Erickson owns and operates 20 S-64 Air Crane helicopters that perform firefighting, powerline construction, timber harvesting, HVAC and specialised heavy-lift missions for the oil and gas industry. Founded in 1971, the company is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, USA, and maintains operations in North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and Australia.