Sikorsky approves VIH Aerospace for S-92A support VIH Aerospace (VIHA), a leading provider of helicopter maintenance, manufacturing, repair, and overhaul (MMRO) services, is proud to announce its official approval as a Sikorsky-authorized Customer Support Center (CSC) for the S-92A™ helicopter. As a CSC, VIHA can perform MRO services on S-92A aircraft from its headquarters near Victoria International Airport in British Columbia. VIHA is now one of eight S-92A CSCs worldwide, and the first located Canada. Other Sikorsky-authorized CSCs are in the United States, Asia and Europe. CSC designation by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, reinforces VIHA’s position as a premier global hub for S-92A support, specifically tailored to meet the evolving needs of offshore, search-and-rescue (SAR), and the emerging utility and firefighting markets. Jeff Norie, President and CEO of VIH Aerospace stated, “Becoming an authorized Customer Support Center is a natural progression of our long-standing relationship with Sikorsky and our deep-rooted experience with the S-92 platform. For years, we have been at the forefront of S-92 innovation—from our pioneering Auxiliary Fuel Systems to the recent success of the S-92 ‘Fire Raptor’ conversion. This official approval from Sikorsky validates our team’s technical excellence and our commitment to keeping this vital fleet mission ready.” Conversion for Secondary Missions VIHA also is taking the lead in converting older-model S-92 aircraft for secondary roles. Because each S-92 helicopter has a maximum airframe life limit of 30,000 hours, many aircraft still have thousands of hours of useful life. Arne Arneson, VIHA General Manager, added. “As older S-92 aircraft transition from traditional offshore oil and gas roles into secondary missions like aerial firefighting and disaster relief, the need for specialized MRO support has never been higher. Arneson went on to say, “We are seeing a significant shift in how the S-92 is utilized. CSC approval from Sikorsky ensures that as the S-92 fleet ages and finds new purposes, VIH Aerospace will be there to provide the highest standard of safety and reliability.” During VAI Verticon — the world’s largest commercial helicopter tradeshow in Atlanta (March 9-12) — attendees can see firsthand the work by VIHA to convert the first-ever operational S-92 helicopter for a life-saving task. Since late 2004, Aircraft 920006 has flown more than 15,600 flight hours, predominantly supporting U.S. energy operations. Now owned by Milestone Aviation, 920006 has been adapted by VIHA for firefighting operations with a 5000L (1320gal) Helitak fire tank. “VIHA as an S-92 Customer Support Center expands this vital network at a time when S-92 operators once again are looking to grow their commercial fleets, and civil governments are looking for heavy-lift capability to protect communities and forest habitat,” said Leon Silva, Vice President of Sikorsky’s Global Commercial & Military Services. “We congratulate VIHA for its forward thinking and high standard of operational excellence.”
