The Helicopter Company Signs LOI with Bombardier for Up to 60 Business Jets
Saudi Arabia’s The Helicopter Company (THC) has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Bombardier for the acquisition of up to 60 business jets, marking the rotorcraft operator’s planned entry into the fixed-wing aviation segment. If finalised, the agreement will represent THC’s first investment in business aircraft.
The LOI includes firm orders for 12 aircraft comprising five Challenger 3500 jets, five Global 5500 jets, and two ultra-long-range Global 8000 aircraft. In addition, the agreement provides options for 48 more aircraft across the three models, although no timeline has been announced for the completion of the deal.
Established in 2018 and owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), THC has rapidly expanded its operations across passenger transport, emergency medical services (EMS), tourism, and other helicopter-based services with a fleet of Airbus and Leonardo helicopters. The move into fixed-wing aviation is intended to support the growing demand for private and business aviation services in the Kingdom.
Captain Arnaud Martinez, Chief Executive Officer of THC, said the expansion is a natural progression of the company’s aviation strategy and reflects its ambition to become a leading general aviation operator from Saudi Arabia with a global presence.
Bombardier President and CEO Eric Martel welcomed the agreement, stating that the selection of Bombardier aircraft demonstrates confidence in the company’s products, expertise, and long-term commitment to supporting aviation growth in Saudi Arabia.
In a separate announcement at the Farnborough Airshow, THC also confirmed an order for 11 additional Leonardo AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopters under a 2024 framework agreement covering up to 130 helicopters. Scheduled for delivery during 2027–2028, the new helicopters will be deployed for emergency medical services, VIP transport, and offshore operations, further strengthening THC’s expanding aviation portfolio.
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