Bristow Launches New Service at Scatsta Airport

Bristow Helicopters has launched a new service for clients operating in the UK called Bristow Logistics Services Shetland (BLSS) that will transport oil and gas workers through Scatsta Airport. The service allows Bristow to contract with new clients on a direct basis, effectively utilizing Scatsta as an airport operating multiple contracts.

The new service is a partnership between Bristow and Eastern Airways to fly workers from Aberdeen Airport to Scatsta Airport in the Shetland Islands on fixed-wing aircraft, with passengers continuing their journeys to nearby onshore destinations or by helicopter to offshore installations in the Shetland basins. Bristow is responsible for the overall management of flying operations, providing a single point of contact for helicopter, fixed wing and airport management services through Scatsta.

“We are extremely proud of our Shetland Islands heritage and continue to work hard to maintain reliable operations at both Sumburgh and Scatsta airports,” said Alan Corbett, managing director of Bristow Helicopters. “This new partnership is also important for the local economy and demonstrates our commitment to the area.

“As the only helicopter operator at Scatsta, we are able to turn around helicopter flights faster. We also have additional back-up support from our great team at Sumburgh Airport to assist when required.”

The terminal at Scatsta offers conveniences for passengers, with open plan rest areas, free Wi-Fi, television facilities, a canteen, baggage and cargo handling services, and security. The terminal also has facilities for arriving passengers to change into their survival suits before traveling by helicopter to offshore installations.

Eastern Airways provides chartered fixed-wing flights using modern, climate-controlled SAAB 2000 aircraft. The aircraft are fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly, designed to transport 50 passengers in a 2-by-1 seat configuration, with each passenger getting a window or an aisle seat. Bristow utilizes a fleet of eight Sikorsky S-92 helicopters at Shetland to service offshore installations; six are located at Scatsta Airport. The helicopters seat up to 19 passengers in airliner comfort.