With this acquisition, Helinet Aviation Services has acquired four AgustaWestland AW109s and will purchase an additional two AW109s. Helinet Photo
Helinet Aviation Services, a diversified flight services company, has announced the acquisition of Los Angeles-based helicopter charter company Briles/Executive HeliShares. The deal combines the charter operations of Southern California’s two largest helicopter operators for the premium market, creating a single-source provider for Fortune 500 companies, heads of state and celebrities across the region. With the addition of the Briles/Executive Helishares business and its fleet of AgustaWestland 109 luxury helicopters, Helinet consolidates its position as the West Coast’s premier charter and management company for VIP clients.
Recognized as one of the industry’s most powerful, spacious and comfortable helicopters, the twin-engine AgustaWestland AW109 provides seating for up to six passengers with a range of more than 400 miles and a top cruising speed of 190 mph. Each of the four AgustaWestland AW109s being acquired in the deal feature luxurious, climate controlled interiors, gracefully appointed with leather seating and wood trim. Following the acquisition, Helinet will purchase two additional 109s, creating one of the largest AgustaWestland AW109 charter fleets in the country.
“Like Helinet, Briles has built a standout business providing white-glove charter service to the world’s most selective aviation customers,” said Helinet president Alan Purwin. “The acquisition provides a perfect complement to our existing charter operations and will allow us to continue to innovate in providing the world’s most comfortable, safe and exclusive helicopter charter services. We are pleased to welcome Briles and its clients to the Helinet family.”
The Briles deal further extends Helinet’s existing position as the largest operator of twin-engine helicopters in Southern California and builds upon the company’s pioneering track record in the premium helicopter charter space. Since 1987, Helinet has been the first choice of business executives, world leaders and celebrities for unparalleled service, safety and comfort. Amenities include limousine / ground transport for all destinations, catering services and an extensive network of off-airport landing sites, among others. Helinet also provides 24/7/365 in- house dispatch and a flight coordination team with state-of-the-art weather and flight following systems.
“Helinet shares the customer first philosophy and commitment to providing the ultimate in aviation charter that fueled our approach at Briles,” said Briles vice president and chief pilot Lance Strumpf. “Our clients can continue to expect the most comprehensive and luxurious experience available and I look forward to continuing to set the standard for premium helicopter charter services as part of Helinet.”
