Starlite Aviation signs contract for two new Super Pumas

                       
Eurocopter and Starlite Aviation Group have signed a contract for the acquisition of two AS332 C1e helicopters, the latest version of the Eurocopter Super Puma medium weight helicopter. The contract also includes an option for two additional aircraft. First deliveries will take place before the end of 2013, following EASA and FAA certification.

“Eurocopter is very proud to accompany the rapid development of Startlite and to build on their continued confidence in our products and services,” said Fabrice Arfi, head of business development at Eurocopter Group. “Starlite has demonstrated a high level of expertise carrying out very demanding missions in difficult environments and we know that they will continue to be successful with this new and highly performing helicopter.”

Based in Ireland and South Africa, Starlite Aviation Group offers a wide range of helicopter services to international clients such as UN agencies and NGOs for many different kinds of operations. The new Super Pumas, acquired in the context of a fleet renewal and expansion program, will join the operator’s extensive helicopter fleet, which currently includes 10 Eurocopter Pumas SA330s.

“After 12 years of Puma operations in austere environments all over the world, Starlite Aviation Group is convinced that the Super Puma AS332 C1e is the only new product on the market able to meet the current requirements of the commercial medium-heavy utility market” said Slade Thomas, CEO of Starlite Aviation Group. “It is an honor for our company to be the launch customer of this new Super Puma version”.

Photograph: SA332 Super Puma on the production line © Copyright Eurocopter, Thierry Rostang