PHI Aviation has begun commercial offshore operations for energy giant Shell using the Airbus H160 helicopter, marking the first time the advanced rotorcraft has been deployed for offshore transport missions worldwide.
The milestone follows a successful route-proving program that began in 2020, involving PHI, Shell, and Airbus. As part of the initiative, Airbus delivered one H160 in 2024—the first of four planned aircraft—to allow Shell and PHI to test its performance, safety features, and operational readiness. After 300 hours of trial flights, PHI now has 12 H160-certified pilots and 12 qualified mechanics.
Enhancing Safety and Efficiency
Tony Cramp, Shell’s Vice President of Aircraft, called the deployment a “long-anticipated milestone” that will improve safety, passenger comfort, and operational efficiency in the Gulf of Mexico. He added that Shell may expand H160 operations to other regions if performance meets expectations.
PHI Group CEO Scott McCarty highlighted the five-year collaboration between the companies, stating that the route-proving program allowed teams to optimize the H160’s capabilities, train personnel, and integrate it into PHI’s safety systems. “We are proud to launch this next-generation aircraft in the Gulf,” McCarty said.
A Breakthrough Partnership
Airbus Helicopters CEO Bruno Even praised the “outside-the-box” approach of the program, which enabled close collaboration between Airbus, PHI, and Shell. “This ensures the highest levels of safety and efficiency,” Even said. He expressed gratitude for the trust placed in Airbus and celebrated the H160’s entry into commercial service.
A Versatile, High-Tech Helicopter
The H160 is among the most advanced helicopters in the world, designed for missions ranging from offshore transport to search and rescue, law enforcement, and medical services. It is already in use across multiple countries, including Brazil, Japan, and Saudi Arabia.
Shell’s Gulf of America Senior Vice President, Colette Hirstius, emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation in offshore energy. “With PHI, we’re proud to introduce the H160, which will safely transport our workforce for years to come,” she said.
Future Expansion
Airbus plans to further support H160 operations with a Full Flight Simulator (FFS) in Texas by 2026. Additional simulators may be added in high-demand regions like Brazil and Australia as market interest grows.
The H160’s deployment represents a major step forward in offshore aviation, combining cutting-edge technology with enhanced safety and efficiency for energy sector operations.
