US Contracts Helicopter Support in Africa

July 8, 2013 Source: Erickson Air-Crane Incorporated

Erickson Air-Crane Announces Two Contract Extensions with SOCAFRICA

PORTLAND, Ore. --- Erickson Air-Crane Incorporated, a leading global provider of aviation services to a diverse mix of commercial and government customers, and the vertically-integrated manufacturer and operator of the powerful heavy-lift Erickson S-64 Aircrane helicopter, announced today that it was awarded option period extensions with Special Operations Command Africa (SOCAFRICA).

The option awards were made to Evergreen Helicopters, a recently acquired, wholly owned subsidiary of Erickson, to provide a fleet of fixed and rotary wing aircraft for personnel and cargo transport for the Department of Defense in Central Africa. The total value of the contract options is in excess of $8 million.

Udo Rieder, Chief Executive Officer of Erickson, commented, “We are excited to continue to develop a strong operational capability and strategic presence in Africa for the Department of Defense. We believe this region, with its vast territories and relatively undeveloped infrastructure, is becoming an increasingly large and diverse market for aviation services across a broad range of missions and types of customers.”

Mr. Rieder concluded, “Each new contract award brings us incremental visibility and furthers our confidence in the Evergreen business portfolio’s strength. We continue to push toward a cohesive integration of our organizations, and expect significant financial and strategic benefits to emerge.”

Erickson Air-Crane Incorporated is a leading global provider of aviation services. The Company currently operates a diverse fleet of 85 rotary-wing and fixed wing aircraft, including a fleet of 20 heavy-lift S-64 Aircranes. The Company also maintains a vertical manufacturing capability for the S-64 Aircrane, related components, and other aftermarket support and maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for the Aircrane and other aircraft.

Founded in 1971, Erickson Air-Crane is headquartered in Portland, Oregon and maintains facilities and operations in North America, South America, the Middle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific.