Transnet Concludes Agreement for New Helicopters

Posted by Michelle Howard February 20, 2018

Photo: TNPA

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has concluded negotiations and signed an agreement for the manufacture, supply and delivery of two new helicopters to service the Ports of Durban and Richards Bay.

The AgustaWestland (AW 109) helicopters, valued at around R250 million, are being procured from Leonardo S.p.A., formerly Leonardo-Finmeccanica, Finmeccanica and AgustaWestland. They are expected to be delivered by June 2019.

This Italian global high-tech company is headquartered in Rome and is one of the key players in aerospace, defence and security. South Africa is understood to be one of only three countries in the world that offer the unique Helicopter Marine Pilotage Service. The AW109 series includes a twin engine and a harbour pilot kit that features a hoist to enable this unique operation.

TNPA Chief Executive, Shulami Qalinge, said clients would welcome the prospect of improved operational efficiency and safety in TNPA’s marine aviation service.

The contract for the new helicopters includes a 25% supplier development obligation by the global supplier to ensure that the contract creates socio-economic benefits within South Africa. These would include job creation, skills development and where possible use of local, empowered companies and local materials or parts.