DALLAS, Texas - 

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. today announced that Milestone Aviation Group, a global finance company that buys and leases helicopters to operators worldwide, has signed a contract to purchase three S-92® helicopters. Sikorsky, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX), announced the purchase at HELI-EXPO®, the world's largest tradeshow dedicated to the international helicopter community.

“In a very short time, Milestone Aviation has become one of the pre-eminent helicopter lessors and an important and highly valued customer,” said Bob Kokorda, Sikorsky Sales & Marketing Vice President. “We deeply appreciate their business, and look forward to growing our relationship.”

The three aircraft join a growing inventory of seven S-76C++™ helicopters and four additional S-92 aircraft Milestone has purchased since December of 2010.

The new aircraft will serve a variety of roles with operators worldwide, such as transporting workers to offshore oil and gas platforms, VIP transport including Head of State, air ambulance, search and rescue, and civil defense.

"Our most recent purchase is further testament to the quality of the Sikorsky product line,” said Richard Santulli, Chairman of Milestone. “Demand for these machines is extraordinary, and they will quickly enter the field performing mission critical or utility work with operators in the oil and gas, EMS or search and rescue sectors."

Sikorsky plans to deliver the first two S-92 aircraft during the latter part of 2012, and the third aircraft in early 2013.

Milestone Aviation Group is the first global aircraft leasing company exclusively focused on helicopters. Milestone’s global aircraft leasing platform addresses the liquidity needs of the market through 100% operating lease financing. Since launching in August 2010, Milestone has leased more than 40 aircraft valued at more than $500 million. Further information is available at www.milestoneaviation.com.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture, and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., USA, provides a broad range of high-technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems.