China Southern Airlines' Zhuhai Helicopter Branch company has ordered two Sikorsky S-92 helicopters for use in the offshore oil support role.

The two helicopters will be delivered in 2013, says Sikorsky. The deal between the two companies was signed at Airshow China in Zhuhai.

After delivery of the two helicopters, the China Southern Airlines unit will operate five S-92s and 12 S-76s.

China Southern is the largest private operator of Sikorsky helicopters in the Asia-Pacific, says Ed Beyer, vice-president of Sikorsky Global Helicopters.

In the oilfield support role, the S-92 can carry 19 passengers and has a seat pitch of 32in (812mm).

Source: Flight International