THC enters fixed-wing executive aviation with 12 Bombardier aircraft

THC enters fixed-wing executive aviation

The Helicopter Company (THC), Saudi Arabia’s largest commercial helicopter operator, has announced its move into the fixed-wing executive aviation market, concentrating on charter services and jet management.

At the Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom, which ran until 24 July, the company signed a letter of intent (LOI) with Bombardier ahead of the formal purchase of 12 aircraft. The proposed order comprises five Challenger 3500s, five Global 5500s and two Global 8000s, together with options for 48 further aircraft from the same families.

The signing ceremony was attended by THC Chief Executive Captain Arnaud Martinez; Muhammad Ovais Yousuf, Head of Aviation and Safety at the Public Investment Fund (PIF); and Bombardier executives, including Chief Executive Éric Martel and Chairman Pierre Beaudoin.

With the launch of this division, THC, which is owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is extending its activities into business aviation as a continuation of the path it began in 2018.

The new operation has been established to serve rising demand for private flights and general aviation, driven by tourism growth, greater business activity and the development of new destinations across Saudi Arabia.

“As a company, THC has always been prepared to expand beyond rotary-wing aviation and enter fixed-wing operations. Our vision has always been to become Saudi Arabia’s benchmark for general aviation to the world,” said Captain Arnaud Martinez, the company’s Chief Executive.

Bombardier President and Chief Executive Éric Martel said the manufacturer’s aircraft are ready to meet customers’ continually changing requirements, providing substantial versatility, strong operational reliability and a world-class experience.

“We are honoured that The Helicopter Company has selected Bombardier to support its fleet-expansion plans. This agreement represents both companies’ shared vision of placing customers at the centre of their operations and contributing to the region’s economic growth. The signing also provides important recognition of the quality of our aircraft, our team and Bombardier’s long-term commitment to Saudi Arabia’s development,” Martel said.

Bombardier Challenger and Global fleet plans

According to THC, the division has been created in response to growing demand within Saudi Arabia’s business aviation market. The company aims to become the region’s leading operator in this sector and the preferred provider for private and corporate charter flights.

During its initial phase, the operation is expected to fly up to 60 aircraft from the Bombardier Challenger and Global families, including the Challenger 3500, Global 5500 and Global 8000. Covering the super-midsize, long-range and ultra-long-range segments, the fleet will combine operational efficiency, extensive range and a high standard of passenger comfort.

Martinez said every company investment follows a strategy to create an integrated aviation ecosystem aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, centred on innovation, operational excellence and long-term value creation.

“Every investment we make is guided by the same philosophy: building an integrated aviation ecosystem that supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 through innovation, operational excellence and the creation of long-term value.”

He added that fleet standardisation, advanced aircraft technologies and a commitment to more efficient, sustainable operations are key pillars of that strategy.

“These factors enable us to provide the highest standards of safety and service quality, while positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of modern aviation.”

Aircraft performance and Saudi Arabia’s aviation strategy

Martel also highlighted the capabilities of the selected models. He said the Challenger 3500 is well placed to serve growing demand for super-midsize aircraft, delivering performance, comfort and reliability. The Global 5500 remains a benchmark in its category because of its range and versatility, while the Global 8000, the manufacturer’s flagship aircraft, opens a new era in business aviation in terms of performance and capability.

The executive further stated that Bombardier will work closely with THC throughout the future fleet’s entire lifecycle, making local investments to support the company’s operations and providing access to its global technical and operational support network.

THC’s expansion into fixed-wing executive aviation reinforces its strategy of advancing general aviation growth in Saudi Arabia, attracting investment, strengthening the local aerospace industry and broadening the country’s aviation ecosystem.