The Helicopter Company is moving into fixed-wing business aviation after signing an agreement with Bombardier that paves the way for an order for 12 corporate jets, marking the Canadian manufacturer's entry into Saudi Arabia and a strategic shift for the Public Investment Fund-owned operator.
The letter of intent, signed at the Farnborough Airshow on July 21, sets out a firm order for five Challenger 3500s, five Global 5500s and two Global 8000s, plus options for a further 48 across the three types.
Since its founding in 2018, THC has only operated helicopters. The Bombardier deal will see it launch private jet charter and aircraft management services, targeting rising demand for business and general aviation in the kingdom.
THC said the move reflects the growth in tourism, business activity and new destinations tied to Saudi Arabia's economic transformation plans.
“Our vision has always been to become the general aviation champion from Saudi Arabia to the world,” THC CEO Capt. Arnaud Martinez said. He added that operating only Bombardier business jets would bring fleet commonality, advanced technology and improved operational efficiency.
Bombardier President and CEO Éric Martel said: “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.”
Helicopter fleet grows
In a separate announcement at the air show, THC confirmed a firm order for eight more Airbus H145 helicopters to expand its rotary-wing operations.
Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2028. The order fits under a wider framework agreement for up to 120 helicopters across multiple platforms signed with Airbus at Verticon 2024.
The new H145s will bolster THC's emergency medical services capability and other mission-critical operations in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Airbus Helicopters CEO Matthieu Louvot said the order emphasized confidence in the H145's operational performance. “The H145 has already proven its excellence in Saudi Arabia's demanding 'hot and high' conditions,” Louvot said.
Separately, THC and Leonardo signed on for 11 more AW139 intermediate-twins, taken from a 2024 framework agreement for up to 130 helicopters. Deliveries are scheduled over the 2027-28 period.
THC said the firm order with Leonardo, also signed at Farnborough, reinforces the company’s dual-OEM strategy and disciplined fleet optimization plan.
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