PHI Converts Six S-76C++ and Six S-92 Options into Firm Order Helicopters

Released on Monday, February 25, 2008

HOUSTON, Texas � Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. and customer PHI, Inc. celebrated the execution of options for 12 additional aircraft for the PHI fleet, and the milestone achievement of 20,000 fleet hours with the Sikorsky S-92® helicopter, at a ceremony today at Heli-Expo. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX)

Under the options contract, PHI will acquire six S-76C++™ helicopters and six S-92 helicopters, scheduled to be delivered in 2009 and 2010. The aircraft will be used to support offshore oil missions world wide.

PHI, a pioneer in deepwater helicopter operations, introduced the operation of the S-92 helicopter to the energy industry. Since the 1950s, Louisiana-based PHI has flown Sikorsky helicopters, offering services to the offshore oil and gas, onshore mining, international, air medical and technical services industries. Sikorsky delivered the first two production S-92 helicopters to PHI in late 2004.

"Throughout more than 50 years, Sikorsky Aircraft and PHI have forged a successful relationship, and it is notable to point out that this success has been due largely, in part, to the continuing record of fine work by the S-92 helicopter," said Sikorsky President Jeffrey Pino. "Today we are pleased to acknowledge this addition of more aircraft for the offshore oil operations that PHI conducts worldwide, and to celebrate the remarkable achievement of 20,000 fleet hours."

Pete Sorenson, Director of Corporate Business Development for PHI, said: "Overall, PHI flies more than 50 Sikorsky helicopters including the S-76A++, the S-76C+ and S-76C++, and the S-92 helicopters. These aircraft have forged a solid track record that carries the approval of our customers."