Helicopter Express acquires Erickson’s aerial firefighting division
The company has announced its takeover of Erickson’s entire aerial firefighting unit, including all aircraft
All of Erickson’s S-64 Air Crane helicopters will be handed over to Helicopter Express as part of the deal.
The acquisition will substantially increase the size of Helicopter Express’s own Air Crane fleet – the company currently operates six of that type, acquired between 2022 and 2023.
While no longer serving as an operator for the S-64, Erickson will continue to serve as an independent manufacturer and service provider for the aircraft type.
“The acquisition of Erickson’s firefighting operations and fleet furthers our growth plan into new aerial markets and makes us the premier heavy-lift operator globally,” said Scott Runyan, CEO of Helicopter Express.
Barry Kohler, CEO of Erickson, added: “This transaction provides us with a sustainable plan to enhance our operations and provide better support to all of our customers. Erickson can now be fully focused on manufacturing, support and supply chain services for the global fleet.”
Fellow aerial firefighting firm Bridger Aerospace closed a US$9.8 million registered direct offering (RDO) earlier this month.
Oliver Cuenca
Oliver Cuenca is a Junior Editor at AirMed&Rescue. He was previously a News and Features Journalist for the rail magazine IRJ until 2021, and studied MA Magazine Journalism at Cardiff University. His favourite helicopter is the AW169 – the workhorse of the UK air ambulance sector! He also led the creation of Waypoint: The AirMed&Rescue podcast, serving as its Production Editor and co-host.