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Bristow Group Inc. - Quarter Report: 2014 March (Form 10-Q)

Table of Contents


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
 ________________________________________
FORM 10-Q
________________________________________ 
(Mark One)
ý
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2014              or             
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from              to             
Commission file number 1-35701
Era Group Inc.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
________________________________________ 
Delaware
 
72-1455213
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
 
(IRS Employer
Identification No.)
 
 
818 Town & Country Blvd., Suite 200
 
 
Houston, Texas
 
77024
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
(Zip Code)
281-606-4900
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

________________________________________ 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes  ý    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes  ý     No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer  ¨
 
Accelerated filer  ¨
 
Non-accelerated filer  x
(Do not check if a smaller
reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes  ¨    No  ý
The total number of shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, outstanding as of April 30, 2014 was 20,344,852. The Registrant has no other class of common stock outstanding.


Table of Contents

ERA GROUP INC.
Table of Contents
 
Part I.
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
 
 
 
 
 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 and 2013
 
 
 
 
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 and 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2014 and 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
 
 
 
 
Item 3.
 
 
 
 
Item 4.
 
 
 
Part II.
 
 
 
 
Item 1A.
 
 
 
 
 
Item 6.


1

Table of Contents

PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
ERA GROUP INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands, except share amounts)
 
March 31,
2014
 
December 31,
2013
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
22,290

 
$
31,335

Receivables:
 
 
 
Trade, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $3,002 and $3,101 in 2014 and 2013, respectively
47,780

 
38,137

Other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $437 and $nil in 2014 and 2013, respectively
4,824

 
4,374

Inventories, net
26,780

 
26,853

Deferred income taxes
2,138

 
2,347

Prepaid expenses and other
3,292

 
2,167

Escrow deposits
3,048

 

Total current assets
110,152

 
105,213

Property and Equipment
1,084,199

 
1,066,958

Accumulated depreciation
(273,754
)
 
(263,306
)
Net property and equipment
810,445

 
803,652

Investments, at Equity, and Advances to 50% or Less Owned Companies
35,433

 
34,986

Goodwill
352

 
352

Other Assets
16,074

 
14,380

Total Assets
$
972,456

 
$
958,583

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
 
 
 
Current Liabilities:
 
 
 
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
$
13,639

 
$
13,293

Accrued wages and benefits
9,583

 
8,792

Accrued interest
4,624

 
772

Current portion of long-term debt
2,787

 
2,787

Derivatives
529

 
621

Accrued income taxes
781

 
613

Other current liabilities
4,171

 
3,267

Total current liabilities
36,114

 
30,145

Long-Term Debt
278,755

 
279,391

Deferred Income Taxes
211,479

 
209,574

Other Liabilities
3,476

 
3,412

Total liabilities
529,824

 
522,522

Equity:
 
 
 
Era Group Inc. stockholders’ equity:
 
 
 
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 60,000,000 shares authorized; 20,328,411 outstanding in 2014 and 20,189,895 outstanding in 2013, exclusive of treasury shares
203

 
202

Additional paid-in capital
423,728

 
421,310

Retained earnings
19,125

 
14,680

Treasury shares, at cost (11,252 and 4,350 in 2014 and 2013, respectively)
(334
)
 
(113
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax
175

 
176

 
442,897

 
436,255

Noncontrolling interest in subsidiary
(265
)
 
(194
)
Total equity
442,632

 
436,061

Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
$
972,456

 
$
958,583






The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

2

Table of Contents

ERA GROUP INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(unaudited, in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
 
Operating Revenues
$
79,443

 
$
67,727

Costs and Expenses:
 
 
 
Operating
49,640

 
43,116

Administrative and general
11,334

 
9,134

Depreciation
11,287

 
11,661

 
72,261

 
63,911

Gains on Asset Dispositions, Net
2,891

 
10,801

Operating Income
10,073

 
14,617

Other Income (Expense):
 
 
 
Interest income
145

 
147

Interest expense
(3,753
)
 
(4,732
)
SEACOR management fees

 
(168
)
Derivative losses, net
(30
)
 
(3
)
Foreign currency losses, net
(57
)
 
(259
)
Other, net

 
3

 
(3,695
)
 
(5,012
)
Income Before Income Tax Expense and Equity in Earnings (Losses) of 50% or Less Owned Companies
6,378

 
9,605

Income Tax Expense
2,503

 
3,578

Income Before Equity in Earnings (Losses) of 50% or Less Owned Companies
3,875

 
6,027

Equity in Earnings (Losses) of 50% or Less Owned Companies, Net of Tax
499

 
562

Net Income
4,374

 
6,589

Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest in Subsidiary
71

 
105

Net Income Attributable to Era Group Inc.
4,445

 
6,694

Accretion of Redemption Value on Series A Preferred Stock

 
721

Net Income Attributable to Common Shares
$
4,445

 
$
5,973

 
 
 
 
Earnings Per Common Share:
 
 
 
Basic
$
0.22

 
$
0.28

Diluted
$
0.22

 
$
0.28

 
 
 
 
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding:
 
 
 
Basic
20,217,690

 
21,454,396

Diluted
20,553,537

 
21,454,396








The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

3

Table of Contents

ERA GROUP INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(unaudited, in thousands)
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
 
 
 
Net Income
 
$
4,374

 
$
6,589

Other Comprehensive Income:
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
(2
)
 
(162
)
Income tax expense
 
1

 
57

 
 
(1
)
 
(105
)
Comprehensive Income
 
4,373

 
6,484

Comprehensive Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest in Subsidiary
 
71

 
105

Comprehensive Income Attributable to Era Group Inc.
 
$
4,444

 
$
6,589























The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

4

Table of Contents

ERA GROUP INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
(unaudited, in thousands)
 
 
Era Group Inc. Stockholders’ Equity
 
Non-
controlling
Interest In
Subsidiary
 
Total
Equity
 
 
Common
Stock
 
Additional
Paid-In
Capital
 
Retained Earnings
 
Treasury
Shares
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
 
December 31, 2013
 
$
202

 
$
421,310

 
$
14,680

 
$
(113
)
 
$
176

 
$
(194
)
 
$
436,061

Issuance of common stock:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Restricted stock grants
 
1

 
(1
)
 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds and tax benefits from share award plans
 

 
319

 

 

 

 

 
319

Share award amortization
 

 
1,077

 

 

 

 

 
1,077

Stock option amortization
 

 
358

 

 
 
 

 

 
358

Employee Stock Purchase Plan amortization
 

 
622

 

 

 

 

 
622

Cancellation of restricted stock
 

 
43

 

 
(221
)
 

 

 
(178
)
Net income (loss)
 

 

 
4,445

 

 

 
(71
)
 
4,374

Currency translation adjustments, net of tax
 

 

 

 

 
(1
)
 

 
(1
)
March 31, 2014
 
$
203

 
$
423,728

 
$
19,125

 
$
(334
)
 
$
175

 
$
(265
)
 
$
442,632





































The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

5

Table of Contents

ERA GROUP INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(unaudited, in thousands)
 
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2014
 
2013
 
 
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
$
9,678

 
$
17,877

Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
 
 
 
Purchases of property and equipment
(18,751
)
 
(19,445
)
Proceeds from disposition of property and equipment
3,566

 
19,099

Principal payments on notes due from equity investees
161

 
535

Principal payments on third party notes receivable, net
36

 
347

Escrow deposits, net
(3,048
)
 

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
(18,036
)
 
536

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
 
 
 
Payments on long-term debt
(697
)
 
(15,697
)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

 
15,000

Dividends paid on Series A preferred stock

 
(4,953
)
Proceeds and tax benefits from share award plans
13

 
89

Proceeds from SEACOR on the settlement of stock options

 
706

Net cash used in financing activities
(684
)
 
(4,855
)
Effects of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents
(3
)
 
(31
)
Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents
(9,045
)
 
13,527

Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of Period
31,335

 
11,505

Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of Period
$
22,290


$
25,032

Supplemental Cash Flow Information:
 
 
 
Cash paid during the period for:
 
 
 
Interest, net of amounts capitalized
$
652

 
$
708

Income taxes refunded
$
1

 
$
2
























The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

6

Table of Contents

ERA GROUP INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)
 
1.
BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND ACCOUNTING POLICY
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Era Group Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Company”). The condensed consolidated financial information for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 has been prepared by the Company and has not been audited by its independent registered public accounting firm. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) have been made to fairly present the Company’s financial position as of March 31, 2014, its results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, its comprehensive income for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, its changes in equity for the three months ended March 31, 2014, and its cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013. Results of operations for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of operating results for the full year or any future periods.
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. have been condensed or omitted. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and related notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Unless the context otherwise indicates, any reference in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to the “Company” refers to Era Group Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries and any reference in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to “Era Group” refers to Era Group Inc.
Prior to January 31, 2013, the Company was wholly owned by SEACOR Holdings Inc. (along with its other majority-owned subsidiaries being collectively referred to as “SEACOR”) and represented SEACOR’s aviation services business segment. On January 31, 2013, SEACOR completed a spin-off by means of a dividend to SEACOR’s stockholders of all of the Company’s issued and outstanding common stock (the “Spin-off”). Era Group is now an independent company with its common stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “ERA.”     
In connection with the Spin-off, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Transition Services Agreement with SEACOR. Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Transition Services Agreement, SEACOR continues to provide the Company with certain support services, for up to two years from the effective date of the Spin-off, including information systems support, cash disbursement support, cash receipt processing and treasury management.
Revenue Recognition. The Company recognizes revenue when it is realized or realizable and earned. Revenue is realized or realizable and earned when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the price to the buyer is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. Revenue that does not meet these criteria is deferred until the criteria are met. Deferred revenues and related activity were as follows (in thousands): 
 
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
2014
 
2013
Balance at beginning of period
$
24,243

 
$
8,953

Revenues deferred during the period
8,344

 
8,932

Revenues recognized during the period
(6,118
)
 
(5,152
)
Balance at end of period
$
26,469

 
$
12,733

As of March 31, 2014, deferred revenues included $23.7 million related to dry-lease revenues for certain helicopters leased by the Company to Aeróleo Taxi Aero S/A (“Aeróleo”), its Brazilian joint venture. The deferral originated from difficulties experienced by Aeróleo following Petróleo Brasileiro S.A.’s (“Petrobras Brazil”) cancellation of certain contract awards for a number of AW139 medium helicopters under dry-lease from the Company, and the deferral continues as a result of financial difficulties at Aeróleo. The Company will recognize revenues as cash is received or earlier should future collectability become reasonably assured. All costs and expenses related to these dry-leases were recognized as incurred.
As of March 31, 2014, deferred revenues also included $2.4 million related to dry-lease revenues for certain helicopters leased by the Company to a customer in India. The deferral resulted from the customer having its operating certificate revoked for a period of time and therefore being unable to operate. The certificate has since been reinstated but uncertainty still remains regarding the collectability of the dry-lease revenues due to the customer’s short-term liquidity issues. The Company will recognize revenues as cash is received or earlier should future collectability become reasonably assured. All costs and expenses related to these dry-leases were recognized as incurred.

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Table of Contents


2.
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
The fair value of an asset or liability is the price that would be received to sell an asset or transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The Company utilizes a fair value hierarchy that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value and defines three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, or inputs derived from observable market data. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.
The Company’s financial assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2014 that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows (in thousands):
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
LIABILITIES
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative instruments (included in other current liabilities) (1)

 
$
529

 

____________________
(1) The fair value of the Company’s derivative instruments was estimated using market data gathered by a third party financial institution, adjusted for market and credit risks applicable to the Company.
The estimated fair values of the Company’s other financial assets and liabilities as of March 31, 2014 were as follows (in thousands): 
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
22,290

 
$
22,290

 
$

 
$

Notes receivable from other business ventures (included in other
  receivables and other assets)
133

 
133

 

 

LIABILITIES
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt, including current portion
281,542

 

 
298,501

 

The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, escrow deposits, notes receivable from other business ventures and accounts payable approximate fair value. The fair value of the Company’s long-term debt was estimated using discounted cash flow analysis based on estimated current rates for similar types of arrangements. Considerable judgment was required in developing certain of the estimates of fair value and, accordingly, the estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that the Company could realize in a current market exchange.
3.
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
In 2011, the Company entered into two interest rate swap agreements maturing in 2014 and 2015 that call for the Company to pay fixed interest rates of 1.67% and 1.83% on an aggregate notional value of $31.8 million and receive a variable interest rate based on LIBOR on these notional values. The general purpose of these interest rate swap agreements is to provide protection against increases in interest rates, which might lead to higher interest costs for the Company. The fair value of these derivative instruments at March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 was a liability of $0.5 million and $0.6 million, respectively. The Company recognized a gain of $0.1 million and losses of less than $0.1 million on these derivative instruments for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
4.
ESCROW DEPOSITS
In March 2014, the Company sold a B212 medium helicopter for cash proceeds totaling $3.0 million, net of fees. The sales transaction was treated as a tax-free like-kind exchange under Section 1031 under IRS regulations for tax purposes whereby all of the proceeds are held by a qualified intermediary and reflected as an escrow deposit in the consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2014. A qualified property has been identified to complete the like-kind exchange under Section 1031 prior to expiration of the 45-day period subsequent to the closing date.

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Table of Contents

5. EQUIPMENT ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS
During the three months ended March 31, 2014, capital expenditures were $18.8 million and consisted primarily of helicopter acquisitions and deposits on future helicopter deliveries. The Company records helicopter acquisitions in Property and Equipment and places helicopters in service once all completion work has been finalized and the helicopters are ready for use. One AW139 medium helicopter was delivered in March 2014 but not yet operational as of March 31, 2014. A summary of changes to our operating helicopter fleet during the three months ended March 31, 2014 is as follows:
Equipment Additions. The Company placed two AW139 helicopters into service, both of which were delivered in the current year.
Equipment Dispositions. The company disposed of two medium helicopters.
During the first quarter of 2014, the Company sold or otherwise disposed of property and equipment for proceeds of $3.6 million and recognized gains of $2.9 million.     
6.
INCOME TAXES
The following table shows the effective income tax rate on continuing operations:
 
 
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2014
 
2013
Statutory rate
 
35.0
%
 
35.0
 %
Non-deductible expenses (1)
 
1.5
%
 
(0.1
)%
Noncontrolling interest
 
0.4
%
 
0.4
 %
State taxes
 
2.1
%
 
2.0
 %
Effective tax rate
 
39.0
%
 
37.3
 %
____________________
(1) Non-deductible expenses are related primarily to share-based compensation payments.
7.
LONG-TERM DEBT
The Company’s borrowings as of the dates indicated were as follows (in thousands):
 
 
March 31, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
7.750% Senior Notes (excluding unamortized discount)
 
$
200,000

 
$
200,000

Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility
 
55,000

 
55,000

Promissory Notes
 
29,613

 
30,311

 
 
284,613

 
285,311

Less: Portion due with one year
 
(2,787
)
 
(2,787
)
Less: Debt discount, net
 
(3,071
)
 
(3,133
)
Total Long-Term Debt
 
$
278,755

 
$
279,391

7.750% Senior Notes. On December 7, 2012, the Company issued $200.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 7.750% senior unsecured notes due December 15, 2022 (the “7.750% Senior Notes”) and received net proceeds of $191.9 million. Interest on the 7.750% Senior Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year.
Amended and Restated Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility. On March 31, 2014, the Company entered into an amended and restated senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) that matures in March 2019. The Revolving Credit Facility provides the Company with the ability to borrow up to $300.0 million with a sub-limit of up to $50.0 million for letters of credit and amends and restates the Company’s $200.00 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Prior Credit Facility”). Subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions precedent and the agreement by the lenders, the Revolving Credit Facility includes an "accordion" feature which, if exercised, will increase total commitments by up to $100.0 million. The Company’s availability under the revolving Credit Facility may be limited by the terms of the 7.750% Senior Notes. Advances under the Revolving Credit Facility at the closing were used to refinance indebtedness incurred under the Prior Credit Facility.

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Borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at the Company’s election, either a “base rate” or LIBOR, as defined, plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin is based on the Company’s ratio of funded debt to EBITDA, as defined, and ranges from 75 to 200 basis points on the “base rate” margin and 175 to 300 basis points on the LIBOR margin. The applicable margin as of March 31, 2014, was 75 basis points on the “base rate” margin and 175 basis points on the LIBOR margin. In addition, the Company is required to pay a quarterly commitment fee based on the average unfunded portion of the committed amount at a rate based on the Company’s ratio of funded debt to EBITDA, as defined, that ranges from 37.5 to 50 basis points. As of March 31, 2014, the commitment fee was 37.5 basis points.
The obligations under the Revolving Credit Facility are secured by a portion of the Company’s helicopter fleet and the Company’s other tangible and intangible assets and are guaranteed by the Company’s wholly owned U.S. subsidiaries. The Revolving Credit Facility contains various restrictive covenants including interest coverage, funded debt to EBITDA, and fair market value of mortgaged helicopters plus accounts receivable and inventory to funded debt, as well as other customary covenants including certain restrictions on the Company’s ability to enter into certain transactions, including those that could result in the incurrence of additional indebtedness and liens, the making of loans, guarantees or investments, sales of assets, payments of dividends or repurchases of capital stock, and entering into transactions with affiliates.
As of March 31, 2014, the Company had $55.0 million of outstanding borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility. As of March 31, 2014, the remaining availability under this facility was $244.3 million, net of issued letters of credit of $0.7 million. In connection with the amendment of the Revolving Credit Facility, the Company incurred debt issuance costs of $2.4 million that are included as deferred debt issuance cost in other assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheet which the Company will amortize as interest expense in the condensed consolidated statement of operations over the life of the Revolving Credit Facility.
Promissory Notes. During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company made scheduled payments on other long-term debt of $0.7 million.
8.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Fleet
The Company’s unfunded capital commitments as of March 31, 2014 consisted primarily of agreements to purchase helicopters and totaled $326.3 million, of which $83.4 million is payable during the remainder of 2014 with the balance payable through 2017. The Company also had $2.3 million of deposits paid on options not yet exercised. The Company may terminate $147.4 million of its total commitments (inclusive of deposits paid on options not yet exercised) without further liability other than liquidated damages of $9.7 million in the aggregate.
Included in these commitments are orders to purchase ten AW189 heavy helicopters, four S92 heavy helicopters, one AW139 medium helicopter, and five AW169 light twin helicopters. The AW189 helicopters are scheduled to be delivered in 2014 through 2017. The S92 helicopters are scheduled to be delivered in 2016 and 2017. The AW139 helicopter is scheduled to be delivered by mid-year 2014. Delivery dates for the AW169 helicopters have yet to be determined. In addition, the Company had outstanding options to purchase up to an additional ten AW189 helicopters, five S92 helicopters, and four AW139 helicopters. If these options were exercised, the helicopters would be scheduled for delivery beginning in 2015 through 2018.
Other
In the normal course of its business, the Company becomes involved in various litigation matters including, among other things, claims by third parties for alleged property damages and personal injuries. Management has used estimates in determining the Company’s potential exposure to these matters and has recorded reserves in its financial statements related thereto where appropriate. It is possible that a change in the Company’s estimates of that exposure could occur, but the Company does not expect such changes in estimated costs would have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
9.
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
Basic earnings per common share of the Company are computed based on the weighted average number of common shares issued and outstanding during the relevant periods. Diluted earnings per common share of the Company are computed based on the weighted average number of common shares issued and outstanding plus the effect of potentially dilutive securities through the application of the if-converted method and/or treasury method. Dilutive securities for this purpose assumes all common shares have been issued and outstanding during the relevant periods pursuant to the conversion of all outstanding Series A preferred stock, restricted stock grants have vested and common shares have been issued pursuant to the exercise of outstanding stock options.

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Computations of basic and diluted earnings per common share of the Company were as follows (in thousands, except share data):
 
 
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2014
 
2013
Net Income Attributable to Common Shares
 
$
4,445

 
$
5,973

Shares:
 
 
 
 
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding—basic
 
20,217,690

 
21,454,396

Assumed conversion of Series A Preferred Stock (1)
 

 

Net effect of dilutive stock options and restricted stock awards based on the treasury stock method (2)
 
335,847

 

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding—diluted
 
20,553,537

 
21,454,396

 
 
 
 
 
Basic Earnings per Common Share
 
$
0.22

 
$
0.28

Diluted Earnings per Common Share
 
$
0.22

 
$
0.28

____________________
(1) Excludes 2,009,659 weighted average common shares issuable upon the conversion of Series A preferred stock for the three month period ending March 31, 2013, as the effect of their inclusion in the computation would have been antidilutive.
(2) Excludes 47,208 weighted average common shares for certain share awards for the three month period ending March 31, 2013, as the effect of their inclusion would have been antidilutive.
10.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Prior to the Spin-off, as part of a consolidated group, certain costs and expenses of the Company were borne by SEACOR and charged to the Company. These costs and expenses are included in both operating expenses and administrative and general expenses in January 2013. In conjunction with the Spin-off, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Transition Services Agreement with SEACOR. These costs are classified in administrative and general expenses. The costs are summarized as follows (in thousands):
 
 
Three Months Ended 
 March 31,
 
 
2014
 
2013
Payroll costs for SEACOR personnel assigned to the Company and participation in SEACOR employee benefit plans, defined contribution plan and share award plans
 
$

 
$
5

Shared services allocation for administrative support
 

 
299

Shared services under the Amended and Restated Transition Services Agreement
 
798

 
562

 
 
$
798

 
$
866

As of March 31, 2014, the Company recorded a payable due to SEACOR of $0.3 million.

11

Table of Contents

11.
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
Transactions in connection with the Company’s share-based compensation plans during the three months ended March 31, 2014 were as follows:
Director stock awards granted
14,364

Restricted stock awards granted
106,086

Restricted stock awards canceled
1,500

Stock option activities:
 
Outstanding as of December 31, 2013
328,040

Granted
45,000

Exercised
(892
)
Forfeited

Expired

Outstanding as of March 31, 2014
372,148

Shares available under the 2012 Incentive Plan as of March 31, 2014
3,201,048

Shares available under the 2013 Employee Stock Purchase Plan as of March 31, 2014
257,508

Total share-based compensation expense, which includes stock options, restricted stock and ESPP purchases, totaled $1.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014.
During the three months ended March 31, 2014, the Company awarded 120,450 shares of restricted stock at an average grant date fair value of $29.24 per share and granted 45,000 stock options. The following table shows the assumptions used to compute the share-based compensation expense for stock options granted during the three months ended March 31, 2014:
Risk free interest rate
 
1.75
%
Expected life (years)
 
5

Volatility
 
39.62
%
Dividend yield
 
%
Weighted average exercise price of options granted
 
$29.24 per option

Weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted
 
$10.86 per option


12

Table of Contents

ITEM 2.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2014 and for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 included elsewhere herein, and with our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Forward-Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements concerning management’s expectations, strategic objectives, business prospects, anticipated performance and financial condition and other similar matters involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements discussed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other important factors include, among others:

dependence on, and the cyclical nature of, the offshore oil and gas industry;
dependence on oil and gas exploration and development activity in the areas where the Company operates;
fluctuations in worldwide prices of and demand for oil and natural gas;
the ability to successfully expand into other geographic and helicopter service markets;
the impact of increased U.S. and foreign government regulation and legislation, including potential government implemented moratoriums on drilling activities;
inherent risks in operating helicopters;
the failure to maintain an acceptable safety record;
the grounding of all or a portion of our fleet for extended periods of time or indefinitely;
reduction or cancellation of services for government agencies;
reliance on a small number of helicopter manufacturers and suppliers;
political instability, governmental action, war, acts of terrorism and changes in the economic condition in any foreign country where the Company does business, which may result in expropriation, nationalization, confiscation or deprivation of our assets or result in claims of a force majeure situation;
declines in the global economy and financial markets;
foreign currency exposure and exchange controls;
credit risk exposure;
the ongoing need to replace aging helicopters;
reliance on the secondary used helicopter market to dispose of older helicopters;
reliance on a small number of customers;
allocation of risk between the Company and its customers;
liability, legal fees and costs in connection with providing emergency response services;
risks associated with the Company’s debt structure;
operational and financial difficulties of the Company’s joint ventures and partners;
conflict with the other owners of the Company’s non-wholly owned subsidiaries and other equity investees;
adverse results of legal proceedings;
adverse weather conditions and seasonality;
adequacy of insurance coverage;
the attraction and retention of qualified personnel;
restrictions on the amount of foreign ownership of the Company’s common stock;
the effect of the Spin-off, including the ability of the Company to recognize the expected benefits from the Spin-off and the Company’s dependence on SEACOR’s performance under various agreements; and
various other matters and factors, many of which are beyond the Company’s control.

It is not possible to predict or identify all such factors. Consequently, the foregoing should not be considered a complete discussion of all potential risks or uncertainties. The words “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “believe,” “plan” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the document in which they are made. The Company disclaims any obligation or undertaking to provide any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which the forward-looking statement is based. The forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the Company’s businesses, particularly those discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein and in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of Era Group’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the

13

Table of Contents

year ended December 31, 2013 and Era Group’s subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and periodic reporting on Form 8-K (if any).
Overview
Our helicopters are primarily used to transport personnel to, from and between offshore oil and gas installations, drilling rigs and platforms. In addition, our helicopters service other missions including emergency search and rescue, air medical transport, firefighting support and Alaska flightseeing tours. We are one of the largest helicopter operators in the world, and we also provide helicopters and related services to third-party helicopter operators. In addition to our U.S. customers, we currently have customers in Brazil, India, Norway, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and Uruguay.
We charter the majority of our helicopters through master service agreements, subscription agreements, day-to-day charter arrangements and dry-leases. Master service agreements and subscription agreements typically require a fixed monthly fee plus incremental payments based on hours flown. These agreements have fixed terms ranging from one month to five years and generally may be canceled by providing 30 days’ notice. Day-to-day charter arrangements call for either a combination of a daily fixed fee plus a charge based on hours flown or an hourly rate with a minimum number of hours to be charged daily. Dry-leases require a fixed monthly fee for the customer’s right to use the helicopter and, where applicable, a charge based on hours flown as compensation for any maintenance, parts, and/or personnel support that we may provide to the customer. Dry-leases generally run from two to five years with no early cancellation provisions. Air medical services are provided under contracts with hospitals that typically include a fixed monthly and hourly rate structure. With respect to flightseeing operations, we allocate block space to cruise lines and seats are sold directly to customers. We also operate a fixed based operation (“FBO”) at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport that sells fuel on an ad-hoc basis and leases storage space.
Certain of our operations are subject to seasonal factors. Operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico are often at their highest levels from April to September, as daylight hours increase, and are at their lowest levels from November to February as daylight hours decrease. Our Alaskan operations also see an increase during May to September, as our firefighting and flightseeing operations occur during this time and daylight hours are significantly longer. 
Market Outlook
Supported by growing demand and attractive oil and gas prices, global offshore exploration, production and development activity continues to move into deepwater areas. The U.S. Gulf of Mexico has been positively impacted by the continuing recovery from the permitting delays following the Deepwater Horizon incident in 2010, and the deepwater rig count has now surpassed pre-moratorium levels. The permitting environment, a leading indicator of future activity, has been active, and there have been several recent successful discovery announcements. In Brazil, which has more deepwater rigs than any other market, the national mandate to significantly increase production over the next five years and beyond and the ongoing growth in the deepwater fields off of its coast will likely necessitate continued investment in infrastructure and associated services. We believe the trend evidenced by these activities will translate into greater demand for medium and heavy helicopters in those markets.
Following the Deepwater Horizon incident in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) has been charged by the U.S. federal government to work to promote safety, protect the environment and conserve resources offshore through vigorous regulatory oversight and enforcement. BSEE provides regulatory oversight focused on compliance by operators with applicable environmental and operational regulations outlined for leases in federal waters. Current and pending oil and gas activities in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico should necessitate sustained levels of mandated BSEE inspection programs, which we believe will increase demand for services provided to government agencies.
In May 2013, Alaska passed legislation reforming Alaska’s oil tax system to attract new investment and increase production on the North Slope while also streamlining the state’s oil and gas permitting process. A resurgence of activity on the North Slope has also been fueled by technological breakthroughs and higher oil and gas prices. Alaska has limited transportation infrastructure, which we believe increases the need for aviation services.
Recent Events
EC225 Settlement Agreement
In April 2014, the Company entered into a settlement agreement with Airbus Helicopters (formerly Eurocopter), a division of Airbus Group (formerly European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company), with respect to the extended suspension of operations of the EC225 heavy helicopters in 2012 and 2013. The settlement agreement provides for certain service and product credit discounts, including credits that will be available to the Company for a period of four years to be applied against support services available from Airbus Helicopters covering spare parts, repair and overhaul, service bulletins, technical assistance or any other services available from Airbus Helicopters. The Company expects to be able to apply such service credits over the following six to ten quarters and such application will impact the Company’s statements of operations as a reduction in operating expenses if and as the credits are utilized.

14

Table of Contents

Aeróleo Update
Since the acquisition of our interest in Aeróleo Taxi Aereo S/A (“Aeróleo”), it has faced several challenges with respect to generating revenues from the helicopters that are dry-leased from us. In July 2011, we entered into dry-leases with Aeróleo and mobilized AW139 medium helicopters in response to notification that Aeróleo was successful in its bid to place them on contract with Petroelo Brasileiro S.A. (“Petrobras Brazil”). In August 2011, Petrobras Brazil canceled the award for these AW139 helicopters in response to an accident involving an AW139 helicopter on contract with Petrobras Brazil from one of Aeróleo’s competitors. As a result, four of the AW139 helicopters under dry-lease to Aeróleo remained idle from August 2011 until late November 2012. In November 2012, in response to the suspension of the use of EC225 heavy helicopters, Petrobras Brazil contracted with Aeróleo to utilize these four AW139 helicopters. This contract ended on November 30, 2013 after the EC225 helicopters returned to service. These AW139 helicopters are scheduled to begin multi-year contracts with Petrobras Brazil commencing in October 2014, but are not currently under contract following the termination of the emergency tender contract.
During the suspension period, Petrobras Brazil alleged that the EC225 helicopters could not meet the terms of the contract and unilaterally attempted to suspend its EC225 helicopter contracts with Aeróleo and the other operators in Brazil from April 1, 2013 through the duration of the EC225 helicopter suspension. Aeróleo did not receive monthly payments for its EC225 helicopters under contract with Petrobras Brazil from April through late September and October, 2013. Aeróleo’s EC225 helicopters resumed flight operations as of November 2013.
Another Aeróleo customer, OGX Petroleo & Gas Participacoes SA (“OGX”), has experienced financial difficulties and has filed for bankruptcy protection. These financial difficulties could impair OGX's ability to pay its receivables to Aeróleo, which could, in turn, impair Aeróleo's ability to make its dry-lease payments owed to us and impact our revenue. As previously noted, we currently recognize revenues from Aeróleo only as cash is received.
In March 2012, we recorded an impairment charge of $5.9 million, net of tax, on our investment in and advances to Aeróleo resulting in a write-down of our investment to nil in 2012. As of March 31, 2014, we have deferred the recognition of $23.7 million of revenue owed by Aeróleo as a result of Aeróleo’s financial difficulties, and Aeróleo’s partners have contributed $9.2 million of shareholder debt to Aeróleo since March 2012 to address Aeróleo’s financial challenges. A continuation of any combination of these financial difficulties taken separately or together, may impede Aeróleo’s ability to pay for equipment leased from us, necessitate an infusion of capital from us to allow Aeróleo to continue to operate and, as a result, adversely impact our results of operations.
On February 15, 2014, definitive agreements were executed with respect to the transfer to a third party of the 50% economic interest and 80% voting interest held by the Company’s partner in Aeróleo. As consideration for the transfer of interests and the other terms and conditions of the transaction, Aeróleo will be required to make payment to affiliates of the transferring partner in the form of severance and partial repayment of shareholder loans that will likely require a capital infusion by the Company of approximately $2.0 million. The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of required local regulatory approval, and is expected to close in the second half of 2014.  As a result of the transaction, the Company may be required to consolidate the financial results of Aeróleo in its financial statements following the consummation of the transactions.
Fleet Update
At March 31, 2014, we had unfunded capital commitments consisting primarily of agreements to purchase helicopters totaling $326.3 million, including ten AW189 heavy helicopters, four S92 heavy helicopters, one AW139 medium helicopter and five AW169 light twin helicopters. The AW189 helicopters are scheduled to be delivered in 2014 through 2017. The S92 helicopters are scheduled to be delivered in 2016 and 2017. The AW139 helicopter is scheduled to be delivered by mid-year 2014. Delivery dates for the AW169 helicopters have yet to be determined. In addition, we had outstanding options to purchase up to an additional ten AW189, five S92 helicopters, and four AW139 helicopters. If these options were exercised, the helicopters would be scheduled for delivery beginning in 2015 through 2018. One AW139 helicopter was delivered in March 2014 but not yet operational as of March 31, 2014.
    

15

Table of Contents

Results of Operations
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2014
 
2013
 
$’000
 
%
 
$’000
 
%
Operating Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
United States
67,322

 
85

 
53,042

 
78

Foreign
12,121

 
15

 
14,685

 
22

 
79,443

 
100

 
67,727

 
100

Costs and Expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Personnel
18,085

 
23

 
17,134

 
25

Repairs and maintenance
16,675

 
21

 
12,438

 
18

Insurance and loss reserves
2,628

 
3

 
2,481

 
4

Fuel
6,135

 
8

 
5,250

 
8

Leased-in equipment
237

 

 
430

 
1

Other
5,880

 
8

 
5,383

 
8

 
49,640

 
63

 
43,116

 
64

Administrative and general
11,334

 
14

 
9,134

 
13

Depreciation
11,287

 
14

 
11,661

 
17

 
72,261

 
91

 
63,911

 
94

Gains on Asset Dispositions and Impairments, Net
2,891

 
4

 
10,801

 
16

Operating Income
10,073

 
13

 
14,617

 
22

Other Income (Expense):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
145

 

 
147

 

Interest expense
(3,753
)
 
(5
)
 
(4,732
)
 
(7
)
SEACOR management fees

 

 
(168
)
 

Derivative losses, net
(30
)
 

 
(3
)
 

Foreign currency losses, net
(57
)
 

 
(259
)
 

Other, net

 

 
3

 

 
(3,695
)
 
(5
)
 
(5,012
)
 
(7
)
Income Before Income Tax Expense and Equity in Earnings (Losses) of 50% or Less Owned Companies
6,378

 
8

 
9,605

 
14

Income Tax Expense
2,503

 
3

 
3,578

 
5

Income Before Equity in Earnings (Losses) of 50% or Less Owned Companies
3,875

 
5

 
6,027

 
9

Equity in Earnings (Losses) of 50% or Less Owned Companies, Net of Tax
499

 
1

 
562

 
1

Net Income
4,374

 
6

 
6,589

 
10

Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
71

 

 
105

 

Net Income Attributable to Era Group Inc.
4,445

 
6

 
6,694

 
10

Accretion of Redemption Value on Series A Preferred Stock

 

 
721

 
1

Net Income Attributable to Common Shares
4,445

 
6

 
5,973

 
9



16

Table of Contents

Operating Revenues by Service Line. The table below sets forth, for the periods indicated, the amount of operating revenues earned by service line.
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2014
 
2013
 
$’000
 
%
 
$’000
 
%
Operating Revenues:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Oil and Gas: (1)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Gulf of Mexico
49,141

 
62

 
36,141

 
53

Alaska
6,197

 
8

 
7,969

 
12

International
1,245

 
1

 
1,014

 
1

Total Oil and Gas
56,583

 
71

 
45,124

 
66

Dry-leasing
10,876

 
14

 
13,947

 
21

Search and Rescue
6,152

 
8

 
3,267

 
5

Air Medical Services
3,091

 
4

 
3,186

 
5

Flightseeing

 

 

 

FBO
2,842

 
3

 
2,295

 
3

Eliminations
(101
)
 

 
(92
)
 

 
79,443

 
100

 
67,727

 
100

____________________
(1) Primarily oil and gas services, but also includes revenues from activities such as firefighting and utility support.

17

Table of Contents

Current Year Quarter compared with Prior Year Quarter

Operating Revenues. Operating revenues were $11.7 million higher in the quarter ended March 31, 2014 (the “Current Year Quarter”) compared with the quarter ended March 31, 2013 (the “Prior Year Quarter”). 
Operating revenues from oil and gas operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico were $13.0 million higher than the Prior Year Quarter primarily driven by an increase in fleet count and higher rates. Operating revenues from heavy helicopters increased $8.8 million due to the EC225 helicopters returning to service. Operating revenues from medium helicopters increased $2.8 million primarily due to increased charter activity at higher rates. Operating revenues from single engine helicopters increased $1.7 million due to increased utilization and higher rates. These increases were partially offset by a $0.5 million decrease in operating revenues from light twin helicopters due to lower utilization.
Operating revenues from oil and gas operations in Alaska decreased $1.8 million primarily due to lower rates and lower other revenues, as high rates and higher other revenues were earned in the Prior Year Quarter on short-term work related to a drillship running aground.
Operating revenues from international oil and gas operations were $0.2 million higher due to a contract in Uruguay that began in late January 2013 compared to a full quarter of operations in 2014.
Revenues from dry-leasing activities were $3.1 million lower primarily due to a $3.3 million decrease related to leases that ended since the Prior Year Quarter, of which $1.3 million related to helicopters that were subsequently sold. In addition, the Prior Year Quarter included $0.5 million of revenues related to an early termination penalty and $0.3 million related to short-term dry-leases that did not recur in the Current Year Quarter. These decreases were partially offset by a $1.0 million increase in revenue from our Brazilian joint venture, Aeróleo, and a customer in India. Revenues from Aeróleo and the customer in India are recognized on a cash receipts basis due to liquidity issues experienced by both customers.
Operating revenues from search and rescue ("SAR") activities increased $2.9 million due to new subscription customers, a third SAR helicopter being placed into service, and increased flight activity.
Operating revenues from air medical services decreased $0.1 million primarily due to the conclusion of a long-term hospital contract, partially offset by increased utilization and higher rates on an existing contract.
Operating revenues from fixed based operations ("FBO") activities increased $0.5 million due to increased fuel sales.
Operating Expenses.  Operating expenses were $6.5 million higher in the Current Year Quarter primarily driven by an increase in repairs and maintenance expense of $4.2 million due to the timing of repairs and increased power-by-hour expense related to the EC225 helicopters returning to service. Personnel costs increased $1.0 million due to higher headcount related to increased activity and pay scale and benefit adjustments related to a competitive labor market. Fuel expense increased $0.8 million due to the EC225 helicopters returning to service and increased fuel sales at the FBO. In addition, other operating expenses increased $0.5 million due to increased costs related to placing a third SAR helicopter in service.
Administrative and General. Administrative and general expenses were $2.2 million higher in the Current Year Quarter. Compensation costs increased $1.8 million due to increased restricted stock and stock option amortization related to changes in senior management and annual stock compensation grants and increased salary and benefits expense related to higher headcount and annual salary adjustments. In addition, professional services fee increased $0.3 million related to audit and tax advisory fees.
Depreciation.  Depreciation expense decreased $0.4 million primarily due to reduced depreciation on helicopters and related equipment sold since the Prior Year Quarter.
Gains on Asset Dispositions and Impairments, Net.  Gains on asset sales were $7.9 million less than in the Prior Year Quarter. During the Current Year Quarter, we sold two helicopters for total proceeds of $3.6 million, resulting in a gain of $2.9 million. In the Prior Year Quarter, we sold or otherwise disposed of six helicopters and related equipment for a gain of $10.8 million.
Operating Income. Operating income as a percentage of revenues was 13% in the Current Year Quarter and 22% in the Prior Year Quarter. Excluding gains on asset dispositions discussed above, operating income as a percentage of revenues was 9% in the Current Year Quarter compared with 6% in the Prior Year Quarter. Revenue increases outpaced the increase in expenses in the Current Year Quarter.
Interest Expense. Interest expense decreased $1.0 million primarily due to increased capitalized interest related to additional deposits on helicopter orders.
SEACOR Management Fees. On December 30, 2011, we entered into a Transition Services Agreement with SEACOR to provide various corporate services at a fixed rate of $2.0 million per annum beginning January 1, 2012. These costs, which were classified as SEACOR management fees, effectively fixed what had previously been a variable allocation of SEACOR corporate overhead expenses to each of its business units based on certain financial contribution metrics. These costs terminated

18

Table of Contents

effective with the completion of the Spin-off. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into an Amended and Restated Transition Services Agreement with SEACOR to provide various shared services, the costs for which are classified as administrative and general expenses.
Foreign Exchange Losses. Foreign exchange losses were $0.2 million less than in the Prior Year Quarter. In 2013, we carried significantly higher Euro-denominated cash and accounts receivable balances resulting in increased losses when the U.S. dollar strengthened.
Income Tax Expense. Income tax expense decreased $1.1 million primarily due to lower pre-tax income in the Current Year Quarter.
Earnings per Common Share. Basic and diluted earnings per common share were $0.22 in the Current Year Quarter compared to $0.28 in the Prior Year Quarter. On an as adjusted basis, had the Spin-off occurred on January 1, 2013, basic and diluted earnings per common share would be as follows (in thousands, except share and per share amounts):
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2014
 
2013
Net Income Attributable to Common Shares
 
$
4,445

 
$
5,973

 
 
 
 
 
Earnings Per Common Share:
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
$
0.22

 
$
0.30

Diluted
 
$
0.22

 
$
0.30

 
 
 
 
 
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding:
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
20,217,690

 
19,915,590

Diluted
 
20,553,537

 
19,915,590

    
    

19

Table of Contents


Fleet Count
 
 
Owned (1)
 
Joint
Ventured
 
Leased-in
 
Managed
 
Total
 
Max.
Pass.(2)
 
Cruise
Speed
(mph)
 
Approx.
Range
(miles)
 
Average
  Age(3) (years)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Heavy:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EC225
 
9

 

 

 


9

 
19

 
162

 
582

 
4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Medium:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
AW139

36


1






37

 
12

 
173

 
426

 
4

B212
 
10

 

 

 

 
10

 
11

 
115

 
299

 
35

B412
 
6

 

 

 


6

 
11

 
138

 
352

 
32

S76 A/A++
 
2

 

 

 


2

 
12

 
155

 
348

 
24

S76 C+/C++
 
5

 

 

 
1


6

 
12

 
161

 
348

 
7

 
 
59

 
1

 

 
1


61

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Light—twin engine:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
A109
 
7

 

 

 
2

 
9

 
7

 
161

 
405

 
8

BK-117
 

 

 
2

 
1

 
3

 
9

 
150

 
336

 
N/A

EC135
 
17

 

 
2

 
1

 
20

 
7

 
138

 
288

 
6

EC145
 
3

 

 

 
1

 
4

 
9

 
150

 
336

 
6

 
 
27

 

 
4

 
5

 
36

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Light—single engine:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
A119
 
17

 
7

 

 

 
24

 
7

 
161

 
270

 
7

AS350
 
35

 

 

 

 
35

 
5

 
138

 
361

 
17

 
 
52

 
7

 

 

 
59

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Fleet
 
147

 
8

 
4

 
6

 
165

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12

____________________
(1) Excludes one AW139 helicopter that was fully paid for and delivered in March 2014 but not yet operational as of March 31, 2014.
(2) In typical configuration for our operations.
(3) Reflects the average age of helicopters that are owned by us.


20

Table of Contents

Liquidity and Capital Resources
General
Our ongoing liquidity requirements arise primarily from working capital needs, meeting our capital commitments (including the purchase of helicopters and other equipment) and the repayment of debt obligations. In addition, we may use our liquidity to fund acquisitions or to make other investments. Sources of liquidity are cash balances and cash flows from operations and, from time to time, we may obtain additional liquidity through the issuance of equity or debt or through borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility.
As of March 31, 2014, we had unfunded capital commitments of $326.3 million, consisting primarily of agreements to purchase helicopters, including ten AW189 heavy helicopters, four S92 heavy helicopters, one AW139 medium helicopter, and five AW169 light twin helicopters. The AW189 helicopters are scheduled to be delivered in 2014 through 2017. The S92 helicopters are scheduled to be delivered in 2016 and 2017. The AW139 helicopter is scheduled to be delivered by mid-year 2014. Delivery dates for the AW169 helicopters have yet to be determined. Of these commitments, $83.4 million are payable in 2014, with the remaining commitments payable in 2015 through 2017, and $147.4 million (inclusive of deposits paid on options not yet exercised) may be terminated without further liability to us other than aggregate liquidated damages of $9.7 million. In addition, we had outstanding options to purchase up to an additional ten AW189 helicopters, five S92 helicopters and four AW139 helicopters. If these options were exercised, the helicopters would be delivered beginning in 2015 through 2018.     
We expect to finance the remaining acquisition costs through a combination of cash on hand, cash provided by operating activities and borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility.
Summary of Cash Flows
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2014
 
2013
 
(in thousands)
Cash flows provided by or (used in):
 
 
 
Operating Activities
$
9,678

 
$
17,877

Investing Activities
(18,036
)
 
536

Financing Activities
(684
)
 
(4,855
)
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash and Cash Equivalents
(3
)
 
(31
)
Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents
$
(9,045
)
 
$
13,527


Operating Activities
Cash flows provided by operating activities decreased by $8.2 million in the Current Year Quarter compared with the Prior Year Quarter. The components of cash flows provided by operating activities during the Current Year Quarter and Prior Year Quarter were as follows:
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2014
 
2013
 
(in thousands)
Operating income before depreciation and gains on asset dispositions, net
$
18,469

 
$
15,477

Changes in operating assets and liabilities before interest and income taxes
(10,814
)
 
3,016

Cash settlements on derivative transactions, net
(122
)
 
(117
)
Interest paid, excluding capitalized interest
(652
)
 
(708
)
Income taxes refunded, net
1

 
2

SEACOR management fees

 
(168
)
Other
2,796

 
375

Total cash flows provided by operating activities
$
9,678

 
$
17,877

Operating income before depreciation and gains on asset dispositions, net was $3.0 million higher in the Current Year Quarter compared with the Prior Year Quarter, primarily due to an increase in operating revenues of $11.7 million, partially offset

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by an increase in operating expenses and administrative and general expenses of $6.5 million and $2.2 million, respectively. See “Results of Operations” included above for an explanation of the main variances.
During the Current Year Quarter, changes in operating assets and liabilities before interest and income taxes used cash flows of $10.8 million, primarily due to an increase in accounts receivable. During the Prior Year Quarter, changes in operating assets and liabilities before interest and income taxes provided cash flows of $3.0 million.
SEACOR management fees were $0.2 million lower during the Current Year Quarter due to no longer being charged a management fee from SEACOR.
Cash flows provided by other operating activities were $2.4 million higher in the Current Year Quarter, primarily due to $2.1 million in equity award amortization and $1.0 million of capitalized interest.
Investing Activities
During the Current Year Quarter, net cash used in investing activities was $18.0 million primarily as follows:
Capital expenditures were $18.8 million, which consisted primarily of helicopter acquisitions and deposits on future helicopter deliveries.
Proceeds from the disposition of property and equipment were $3.6 million.
Deposits into escrow for like-kind exchange were $3.0 million.
Net principal payments on notes due from equity investees were $0.2 million.
During the Prior Year Quarter, net cash provided by investing activities was $0.5 million primarily as follows:
Capital expenditures, consisting primarily of helicopter acquisitions, were $19.4 million.
Proceeds from the disposition of property and equipment were $19.1 million.
Net principal payments on notes due from equity investees were $0.5 million.
Net principal payments from third-party notes receivable were $0.3 million.
Financing Activities
During the Current Year Quarter, net cash used in financing activities was $0.7 million primarily as follows:
Net principal payments on long-term debt were $0.7 million.
During the Prior Year Quarter, net cash used in financing activities was $4.9 million primarily as follows:
Dividends paid on Series A preferred stock of $5.0 million.
Proceeds from SEACOR on the settlement of stock options of $0.7 million.
Net principal payments on long-term debt were $0.7 million.
Amended and Restated Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility
On March 31, 2014, we entered into an amended and restated senior secured revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”) that matures in March 2019. The Revolving Credit Facility provides us with the ability to borrow up to $300.0 million with a sub-limit of up to $50.0 million for letters of credit and amends and restates our senior secured revolving credit facility providing for the ability to borrow up to $200.0 million (the “Prior Credit Facility”). Subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions precedent and the agreement by the lenders, the Revolving Credit Facility includes an "accordion" feature which, if exercised, will increase total commitments by up to $100.0 million. Our availability under the revolving Credit Facility may be limited by the terms of our 7.750% Senior Notes. Advances under the Revolving Credit Facility at the closing were used to refinance indebtedness incurred under the Prior Credit Facility.
Borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at our election, either a “base rate” or LIBOR, as defined, plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin is based on our ratio of funded debt to EBITDA, as defined, and ranges from 75 to 200 basis points on the “base rate” margin and 175 to 300 basis points on the LIBOR margin. The applicable margin as of March 31, 2014, was 75 basis points on the “base rate” margin and 175 basis points on the LIBOR margin. In addition, we are required to pay a quarterly commitment fee based on the average unfunded portion of the committed amount at a rate based on our ratio of funded debt to EBITDA, as defined, that ranges from 37.5 to 50 basis points. As of March 31, 2014, the commitment fee was 37.5 basis points.
The obligations under our Revolving Credit Facility are secured by a portion of our helicopter fleet and our other tangible and intangible assets and are guaranteed by our wholly owned U.S. subsidiaries. The Revolving Credit Facility contains various

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restrictive covenants including interest coverage, funded debt to EBITDA, and fair market value of mortgaged helicopters plus accounts receivable and inventory to funded debt, as well as other customary covenants including certain restrictions on our ability to enter into certain transactions, including those that could result in the incurrence of additional indebtedness and liens, the making of loans, guarantees or investments, sales of assets, payments of dividends or repurchases of our capital stock, and entering into transactions with affiliates.
As of March 31, 2014, we had the ability to borrow an additional $244.3 million under the facility. In connection with the amendment of the Revolving Credit Facility, we incurred debt issuance costs of $2.4 million that are included as deferred debt issuance cost in other assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheet which we will amortize as interest expense in the condensed consolidated statement of operations over the life of the Revolving Credit Facility.
Senior Notes
On December 7, 2012, we completed an offering of $200.0 million aggregate principal amount of 7.750% Senior Notes due December 15, 2022. Interest on the notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year.
Short and Long-Term Liquidity Requirements
We anticipate that we will generate positive cash flows from operating activities and that these cash flows will be adequate to meet our working capital requirements. During the three months ended March 31, 2014, our cash provided by operating activities was $9.7 million. To support our capital expenditure program and/or other liquidity requirements, we may use operating cash flow, cash balances, proceeds from sales of assets, issue debt or equity, borrow under our Revolving Credit Facility or any combination thereof.
Our availability of long-term financing is dependent upon our ability to generate operating profits sufficient to meet our requirements for working capital, capital expenditures and a reasonable return on investment. We believe that earning such operating profits will permit us to maintain access to favorably priced financing arrangements. Management will continue to closely monitor our liquidity and the capital and other financing markets.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
On occasion, we and our partners will guarantee certain obligations on behalf of our joint ventures. As of March 31, 2014, we had no such guarantees in place.
Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
For additional information about the Company's contractual obligations and commercial commitments, refer to “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments” contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Contingencies
In the normal course of our business, we become involved in various litigation matters including, among other things, claims by third parties for alleged property damages and personal injuries. Management has used estimates in determining our potential exposure to these matters and has recorded reserves in its financial statements related thereto as appropriate. It is possible that a change in our estimates related to these exposures could occur, but we do not expect such changes in estimated costs would have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
ITEM 3.
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

For additional information about the Company’s exposure to market risk, refer to Item 7A, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk, contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. There has been no significant change in the Company’s exposure to market risk during the Current Year Quarter, except as described below.
As of March 31, 2014, we had non-U.S. dollar denominated capital purchase commitments of €152.8 million ($210.4 million). An adverse change of 10% in the underlying foreign currency exchange rate would increase the U.S. Dollar equivalent of the non-hedged purchase commitment by $21.0 million.
ITEM 4.
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

With the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, management evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), as of March 31, 2014. Based on their evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective and operating to provide reasonable assurance that material information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms,

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including ensuring that such material information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure, as of March 31, 2014.
During the quarter ended March 31, 2014, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.
We have been evaluating, designing and enhancing controls, including internal controls over financial reporting, related to processes that previously were handled by SEACOR and/or will continue for a limited time to be handled by SEACOR under the Amended and Restated Transition Services Agreement, information systems support, cash disbursement support, cash receipt processing and treasury management, and have been discussing these matters with our independent accountants and the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors. Based on these evaluations and discussions, we consider what revisions or improvements are necessary in order for us to conclude that our internal controls are effective. We are in the process of identifying areas where there may be a need for improvement in our internal controls, and following such process will design and implement controls and processes to address the issues identified through this review.

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PART II—OTHER INFORMATION


ITEM 1A.     RISK FACTORS
For additional information about our risk factors, see “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K, in Part II, and in our Current Reports on Form 8-K (if any).
ITEM 6.
EXHIBITS
10.1
 
Amended and Restated Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility
31.1
 
Certification by the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act.
31.2
 
Certification by the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act.
32.1
 
Certification by the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2
 
Certification by the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS**
 
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101.CAL**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
101.DEF**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
101.LAB**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
101.PRE**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
______________________ 
**
Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 or Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and otherwise are not subject to liability.

25

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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
 
 
 
Era Group Inc. (Registrant)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DATE:
May 6, 2014
By:
 
/s/ Christopher S. Bradshaw
 
 
 
 
 
Christopher S. Bradshaw, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
 
 
DATE:
May 6, 2014
By:
 
/s/ Jennifer Whalen
 
 
 
 
 
Jennifer Whalen, Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
 
 
 
 
 
 


26

Table of Contents

EXHIBIT INDEX

10.1
 
Amended and Restated Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility
31.1
 
Certification by the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act.
31.2
 
Certification by the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act.
32.1
 
Certification by the Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32.2
 
Certification by the Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS**
 
XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101.CAL**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
101.DEF**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
101.LAB**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
101.PRE**
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase



______________________ 
**
Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 or Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and otherwise are not subject to liability.


27