Ensco reported income that was 27% higher from the first quarter of 2014 - $478.4 million compared to $377.3 million a year before. That came on revenues of of $1.16 billion, up 9% from $1.07 billion a year ago.

"Notwithstanding challenging market conditions, first quarter results were highlighted by strong operational, safety and financial performance," said chief executive Carl Trowell.

The bottom line was helped by a 99.6%