Saudi PIF‑Backed Helicopter Company Signs LOI for Bombardier Business Jets
The agreement signals a planned expansion into fixed‑wing charter and aircraft management to help build a broader Saudi general aviation sector under Vision 2030.
Overview
- The Helicopter Company signed a letter of intent with Bombardier at the Farnborough Airshow to finalise a firm order for 12 business jets—five Challenger 3500s, five Global 5500s and two Global 8000s—with options for 48 more.
- Bombardier pledged lifecycle and global service support for the planned fleet but neither company disclosed a contract value or delivery schedule for the aircraft.
- THC confirmed additional rotary‑wing purchases at Farnborough, ordering eleven AW139s and eight H145s for delivery in 2027–2028 and keeping a 2024 framework with Airbus and Leonardo that covers deliveries through 2031.
- The planned Bombardier fleet spans super‑midsize to ultra‑long‑range jets to cover charter and management missions and to preserve commonality by using a single manufacturer.
- Owned by the Public Investment Fund and operating more than 60 helicopters for EMS, tourism and private charter, THC’s move could scale Saudi domestic business aviation and create demand for local maintenance, crew training and management services while the industry waits for firm contract terms and delivery dates.