Bristow Group Announces the Passing of Former Director Peter Buckley

HOUSTON, Dec. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Bristow Group Inc. (NYSE: BRS) is very sad to announce the death of Peter Buckley early Tuesday after a short illness. Mr. Buckley had served as a member of Bristow Group's Board of Directors from 1997 until he retired in August 2008. He remained Chairman of Bristow Aviation in the U.K. and Chairman of Bristow's U.K. Pension Scheme.

"Peter's experience and wisdom helped steer the Company through some difficult years, and he contributed notably to the development of Bristow's strategic growth plan. Those who had the privilege of working with Peter admired his intellect and knowledge of the helicopter industry. He will be greatly missed," said William E. Chiles, Bristow President and Chief Executive Officer.

Mr. Buckley was Chief Executive of Caledonia Investments plc from 1987 to 2002 and Chairman since 1994. Caledonia is a U.K.-based investment company and a significant shareholder in both Bristow Group Inc. and Bristow Aviation in the U.K.

Bristow Group Inc. is the leading provider of helicopter services to the worldwide offshore energy industry based on number of aircraft operated. Through its subsidiaries, affiliates (including Bristow Aviation based in the U.K.), and joint ventures, the Company has major operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico and the North Sea, and operations in most of the other major offshore oil and gas producing regions of the world, including Alaska, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia and Trinidad.

Contact: Linda McNeill

               Bristow Group Inc.
               (713)267-7622

SOURCE Bristow Group Inc.

Released December 3, 2008