Sierra Industries Ltd. has entered into an exclusive contract with Helio Aircraft LLC to provide support, maintenance, repair and parts for the worldwide fleet of Helio Courier and Stallion aircraft. As part of the agreement, Sierra will manufacture replacement parts in its PMA-approved facilities and investigate development of new upgrades and products for Helio aircraft.
Helio President and Director Jon W. Dwight stated, “This has been a long time coming for the Helio fleet and we are excited about our new partnership with Sierra. It is not easy to find an efficient and economical way to support a fleet of several hundred aircraft. Sierra Industries is the company that can make it happen.” Sierra Industries Founder and CEO Mark Huffstutler remarked, “This … will mark the first time in 25 years that Helio airplane owners will have a true factory authorized parts, maintenance and support program.”
Originally introduced in the early 1950s, approximately 500 Helio aircraft were produced, with many still in existence around the globe. These aircraft are often found in remote areas with limited accessibility and little to no support facilities. The Helio Courier as the U10 and the Helio Stallion as the AU24 were used by the US Army and US Air Force from 1958 onward, and by Air America during the Vietnam War. Various versions were produced up through the 1980s, including turbine-powered variants. Some are still in use today as bush planes and light transports.
For more information: 888-8FLYERS or SIjet.com; HelioAircraft.com
