Leonardo is excited to celebrate the successful partnership between HeliService USA and Sabine Bank Pilots, marking a key milestone in the U.S. harbor pilot industry with the introduction of the AW169 intermediate twin engine helicopter.
Sabine Bank Pilots, a highly skilled organization responsible for safely guiding vessels through the Sabine-Neches Waterway — one of Texas’ most vital shipping routes — will now integrate advanced aviation support into its operations. HeliService USA, the first and only helicopter operator dedicated to supporting offshore wind development in the United States, is expanding its capabilities to serve this new sector.
As part of this collaboration, HeliService USA will introduce and operate two AW169s for HPS (Harbor Pilot Shuttle) operations on behalf of Sabine Bank Pilots.
This partnership enhances both organizations’ capabilities and highlights their shared commitment to safety and cutting-edge solutions for offshore operations.
Flight operations are expected to begin in mid-2025, bringing HeliService USA’s AW169 fleet to five aircraft – making it the largest AW169 operator in the U.S., where it already uses this type for offshore wind operations and HEMS services.
This milestone further strengthens Leonardo’s presence in the North American HPS sector, complementing the AW109 GrandNew light twin, which is already in service.
“HeliService USA is proud to partner with Sabine Bank Pilots, and represents an exciting step forward, not just for our company, but for the entire U.S. LNG and Harbor Pilot industry. By introducing the AW169 to HPS (Harbor Pilot Shuttle) operations, we are setting a new standard for efficiency, safety, and reliability,” said Michael Tosi, CEO of Heliservice USA.
“Our experience in offshore wind logistics and hoisting has proven the value of helicopter support in challenging environments, and we’re honored to bring that expertise to Sabine to enhance their critical operations.”
“We at Sabine Bank Pilots are looking forward to the introduction of the AW169 into our daily operations. This aircraft offers the speed, comfort and performance we need to ensure our pilots are transported safely and efficiently, reducing transfer times and improving overall operational efficiency,” said Andrew Guidry, president of Sabine Pilots.
“Partnering with HeliService USA — a company with a proven track record in hoisting in demanding offshore environments — gives us confidence that we are embracing a solution built for the future.”
“Leonardo continues to illustrate to the harbor pilot community that our product portfolio delivers the right combination of size/speed/power and stability to safely and efficiently support this industry,” said Enrico Canal, head of Leonardo Helicopters’ Macro Area Sales N&C America, U.S. Sales.
“We look forward to continuing our partnership with HeliService USA as their customer base grows further and requires the best technology and capability for their missions.”
Sabine Bank Pilots are experienced maritime professionals who play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of vessels operating offshore and within the Sabine-Neches Waterway, which is a critical shipping corridor in Southeast Texas.
Their expertise supports the region’s shipping commerce, serving the public ports of Beaumont, Port Arthur, and Orange, as well as private oil terminals and industrial complexes.
Aviation support is especially crucial during winter months, when LNG production peaks, driving a significant increase in ship traffic within the Port Arthur Ship Channel and the Sabine-Neches Waterway. By incorporating helicopter transfers into their operations, Sabine Harbor Pilots is improving efficiency, enhancing safety, and ensuring the seamless flow of maritime traffic in one of the nation’s busiest shipping regions.
