The Helicopter Company (THC), Saudi Arabia’s leading commercial helicopter operator, has announced its entry into the fixed-wing business aviation market by signing a letter of intent (LOI) with Bombardier for up to 60 business jets.
Signed at the Farnborough International
Airshow, the agreement includes a firm order for 12 aircraft, five Challenger
3500s, five Global 5500s and two Global 8000s, with options to purchase an
additional 48 aircraft.
The move marks a major expansion for the
Public Investment Fund (PIF)-owned company, which aims to meet growing demand
for private and business aviation driven by Saudi Arabia’s expanding tourism
sector, business activity and emerging destinations.
THC plans to offer charter and aircraft
management services, positioning itself as the Kingdom’s national carrier of
choice for business aviation. The planned fleet will combine Bombardier’s
Challenger and Global aircraft families, providing super-midsize, long-range
and ultra-long-range capabilities.
The expansion forms part of THC’s broader
growth strategy since its launch in 2018 and supports Saudi Arabia’s ambition
to strengthen its aviation sector and enhance premium travel services across
the region.
“As a portfolio of companies, THC was
always poised to expand beyond rotary-wing aviation into fixed-wing
operations,” said Captain Arnaud Martinez, Chief Executive Officer of THC.” Our
vision has always been to become the General Aviation Champion from Saudi
Arabia to the world.”
“Bombardier’s aircraft are uniquely
positioned to meet the evolving needs of customers around the world, offering
exceptional versatility, dispatch reliability and a world-class customer
experience,” said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer,
Bombardier. “We are honored that The Helicopter Company has selected Bombardier
to support its future fleet ambitions. This is a powerful symbol of our companies’
shared customer-centric DNA and vision for economic growth in the region. This
signing also represents a significant endorsement of our aircraft,
our people and our long-term commitment to supporting growth in the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia.”
“Every investment we make is guided by the
same philosophy - to build an integrated aviation ecosystem that supports Saudi
Vision 2030 through innovation, operational excellence and long-term value
creation.” Captain Arnaud further commented.
“Fleet commonality, advanced aircraft
technology and a commitment to more efficient and sustainable operations are
fundamental to that approach, enabling us to deliver the highest standards of
safety and service while positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of modern
aviation."
“As demand continues to grow across the
region for the super-midsize category, the Challenger 3500 is ideally
positioned to meet customer expectations for performance, comfort and
reliability. The Global 5500 continues to set the benchmark in its class with
industry-leading range and outstanding versatility, while the flagship Global
8000 – the pinnacle of business aviation - ushers in a new era of business
aviation performance and capability,” added Éric Martel. “Our team looks
forward to working hand-in-hand with THC to support their ambitions and success
throughout the lifecycle of their soon-to-be extensive, bespoke fleet. Through
planned local investments dedicated to supporting THC’s operations and the
strength of our global support network, we are committed to delivering the
resources, expertise, and service wherever their operations take them.” -TradeArabia News Service