Helicopter Express Expands Horizon: Acquires Erickson’s Aerial Firefighting Division and Fleet

By: Andrew Adleson

In the latest industry development, Helicopter Express has completed the acquisition of Erickson Inc.’s aerial firefighting operations unit along with its entire fleet of aircraft, marking a significant move in the aviation sector.

Speaking on the acquisition, Scott Runyan, the CEO of Helicopter Express, expressed, “The acquisition of Erickson’s firefighting operations and fleet propels our expansion strategy into new aerial markets, establishing us as a leading heavy-lift operator on a global scale.”

This acquisition underscores Helicopter Express’s notable growth trajectory in the heavy-lift firefighting domain, which commenced with the procurement of a single S-64 Erickson Air Crane in 2022. The company has steadily augmented its fleet, incorporating five additional Air Cranes in 2023, bringing the total count to 19, with 16 currently operational and the remaining three undergoing refurbishment. In addition to the Air Cranes, Helicopter Express boasts a diverse fleet, including the Kaman K-Max, Bell series helicopters, Airbus AS350 B3, and others, solidifying its position as Erickson’s principal operating client.

Erickson Inc., in a press statement, clarified that its original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) divisions will continue to operate autonomously with separate capitalization. These divisions remain committed to the production and support of the Air Crane fleet globally, ensuring uninterrupted service to customers.

Barry Kohler, CEO of Erickson, remarked, “This transaction enables us to optimize our operations and bolster support for our clientele. With this strategic realignment, Erickson can devote undivided attention to manufacturing, support services, and supply chain management for the worldwide fleet.”

The acquisition follows a prior strategic alliance announced by the two companies, aimed at bolstering S-64 operations in North America and addressing the escalating global demand for heavy-lift aircraft sustenance, modernization, and production. Though specifics regarding the alliance were not extensively disclosed, assurances were given regarding a seamless transition without service disruptions.

The evolution of Erickson Inc., a company deeply associated with the S-64 Air Crane, has been marked by a series of transformations. Founded by Jack Erickson in 1971, the company secured the type certificate for the S-64 from Sikorsky in 1992, subsequently producing the E and F variants capable of lifting 20,000 and 25,000 pounds respectively.

Following the acquisition of Evergreen Helicopters in 2013, Erickson expanded its fleet significantly, albeit facing financial challenges and ultimately filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2016. Emerging from bankruptcy in 2017 after substantial debt reduction and fleet restructuring, the company has navigated various phases of reorganization, with its operational fleet size fluctuating over the years.

Under the leadership of current CEO Barry Kohler, appointed in May 2023, Erickson continues to innovate, evident in recent milestones such as the development of a new glass cockpit, night vision goggle (NVG) capability certification, and advancements in rotor blade technology.