ATLANTA, Georgia, — March 9, 2026 — The Milestone Aviation Group Limited (“Milestone”), the global leader in helicopter leasing, and Sikorsky - a Lockheed Martin company - today announced the display of a landmark Sikorsky S‑92 helicopter, tail number 920006, at Verticon 2026. As the first ever S‑92 to enter commercial service in September 2004, this aircraft represents more than two decades of global operational excellence, fleet sustainment, and the enduring capability of the S‑92 platform.
Since entering service, the aircraft has built a distinguished operational legacy, beginning its life supporting offshore energy missions in the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America) before expanding its global footprint. The aircraft has flown with three operators across multiple jurisdictions and regions, transitioning seamlessly between mission types.
Demonstrating the multi‑mission versatility of the S‑92, the aircraft transitioned into firefighting in 2024. In 2025, it completed an exceptionally strong firefighting season in Canada with operator VIH, flying more than 550 hours. In total, the S-92 helicopter has accumulated over 15,600 flight hours - a testament to its reliability and significant remaining life, well within the 30,000‑hour certified lifespan of the S‑92 airframe.
The presence of S‑92 (920006) at Verticon underscores the proven capability, adaptability, and value of the S‑92 family across traditional and emerging mission profiles. Its remarkable operational journey stands as a testament to the strength of the Sikorsky–Milestone partnership and the enduring performance of the S‑92 platform.
Pat Sheedy, President & Chief Executive Officer, Milestone, said, “The evolution of this S-92 stands as a clear demonstration of the value of the operating lease model in supporting the transition of aircraft through their natural lifecycle. Milestone is delighted to have partnered with Helitak Firefighting Equipment and VIH on this project, and we are pleased to see the life of 920006 continue strongly into the future.”
Leon Silva, Vice President, Sikorsky Commercial Helicopters said: “Congratulations to Milestone and VIH for their leadership to find a critical secondary role for older S-92 aircraft. As an aerial firefighter, aircraft 920006 and others like it can protect lives and property from wildfires for the next 25 years. Sikorsky stands solidly behind the global S-92 fleet with sustainment and diagnostic knowledge learned from 2.6 million fleet flight hours and climbing.”
Ken Norie, President of VIH Helicopters, which operates the aircraft under lease from Milestone Aviation, said, “The S-92 has demonstrated outstanding capability and reliability across our operations. Its performance and mission adaptability enabled a seamless transition into the Fire Raptor configuration and supported a highly successful and demanding firefighting season. The ongoing support provided by Sikorsky has been critical to sustaining exceptional serviceability and ensuring the aircraft consistently delivers top-tier performance.”
The aircraft’s longevity, resilience, and high availability have been strongly supported by Sikorsky’s Total Assurance Program (TAP), ensuring consistent performance throughout its lifecycle, along with Sikorsky’s expert support during the aircraft’s later reconfiguration for aerial firefighting.
About Milestone
Milestone Aviation Group, an AerCap company, is the world’s leading helicopter leasing and financing company. Milestone partners with helicopter operators worldwide, providing a wide array of financial and productivity solutions, including operating leases, purchase/leasebacks, secured debt financing, engine leasing and fleet advisory. The company supports approximately 50 customers in approximately 35 countries serving a variety of industries, including offshore oil and gas, search and rescue, emergency medical services, police surveillance, mining, firefighting, and other utility missions. www.milestoneaviation.com
About AerCap
AerCap is the global leader in aviation leasing with one of the most attractive order books in the industry. AerCap serves approximately 300 customers around the world with comprehensive fleet solutions. AerCap is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (AER) and is headquartered in Dublin with offices in Shannon, Memphis, Miami, Singapore, London, Dubai, Shanghai, Amsterdam and other locations around the world.
About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at Lockheedmartin.com.
About VIH Helicopters
VIH Helicopters Ltd. (“VIH”) is a subsidiary of the VIH Aviation Group of Companies based in British Columbia, Canada, and has been providing safe and efficient aviation services since 1955. VIH operations are primarily focused on servicing utility sectors including wildfire suppression, forestry and precision aerial construction with a versatile fleet of light, intermediate and heavy helicopter types.
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