Bristow Group has signed a contract with AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, to buy six AW189 helicopters, with an option for additional aircraft.

The helicopters will be used by Bristow Group for offshore transport missions and will further expand Bristow’s fleet of AW-139 helicopters.

The company said that the eight-ton twin-engine AW189 helicopter is scheduled to enter into service in early 2014.

AW189 offers a spacious 16-seat cabin that can be configured for an 18-seat layout or an ultra-long-range 12-seat layout.

The helicopter will offer the latest in avionics technology incorporating advanced situational awareness tools that help to reduce crew load and enhance safety.