Erickson Incorporated (OTCPK:EKSN) has hired financial consulting firm Houlihan Lokey Inc. (NYSE:HLI) to help it explore “strategic alternatives.” In a statement issued late last week, Erickson Chief Executive Officer Doug Kitani said the company is “seeking a strategic partner who shares our vision” and, via implication, could provide needed capital. "Our aim is to upgrade Erickson's great assets, including technology advances in the S-64 Super Air Crane, and expand our capabilities in MRO,” KItani said. “A new strategic partner will complement our strengths, propel Erickson to the next level, and position the company, with its legacy and expertise, as the first-choice leader in the most demanding air operations and OEM-level MRO support" . In February 2021, Erickson said it planned to make the first flight of its optionally-piloted S-64F+ Air Crane next year, with customer deliveries of the new helicopter variant to begin as early as 2024. The aircraft will be equipped with all-composite main rotor blades that Erickson certified late last year, as well as Sikorsky’s Matrix optional pilot technology and new turboshaft engines with Fadec. A HUD might also be available for the F+ in concert with Erickson’s new aerial water cannon.