Offshore Logistics, the world’s largest provider of helicopter transportation services to the oil and gas industry, yesterday ordered 35 new S-76 helicopters. The contract, one of the largest helicopter orders in Stratford, Connecticut-based Sikorsky’s history, is in addition to a previously announced purchase of 12 new S-76s in 2003. The new order includes options for a further 24 S-76 aircraft. The first helicopter is set for delivery late this year with 20 more scheduled for 2006 and 2007 and the balance between 2008 and 2012.

The United Technologies subsidiary, in a separate move, yesterday signed an agreement with Norsk Helikopter for the purchase of three new S-92 helicopters, raising the Norway-based operator’s fleet to five. Deliveries are earmarked for 2006. Two of the aircraft will provide offshore services between Sola and the Ekofisk oil platform located in the North Sea.