The Helicopter Company (THC), a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, has announced an additional order of 11 Leonardo helicopters at Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom, running until July 24, 2026.
The Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 is a major global event for the aerospace, aviation, and defense industries. It brings together companies, government leaders, and industry experts to showcase new technologies, discuss partnerships, sign deals, and present aircraft displays.
According to the statement, a total of 11 AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopters are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2028, under the framework agreement signed between THC and Leonardo at HAI Heli-Expo (now Verticon) in 2024.
This additional order represents a key milestone under the multi-year framework, which allowed for the potential acquisition of up to 130 aircraft.
The order of these 11 helicopters reinforces THC’s dual-OEM strategy and disciplined fleet optimization plan, positioning the company to meet Saudi Arabia’s evolving aviation needs.
Commenting on the additional order, Captain Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC, said that, “We are proud to expand our long-standing partnership with Leonardo, which strengthens our leadership and operational capabilities in the region and beyond.”
“Building on our existing AW139 fleet, which has made THC one of the largest and most recognized operators worldwide, this new order will contribute to our fleet optimization strategy while supporting our plans to grow our global footprint,” noted Captain Martinez.
Gian Piero Cutillo, Co-General Manager of Leonardo and Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, noted that, “We are very pleased to move forward into the next stage of THC’s Leonardo helicopter fleet expansion and modernization plan which we launched two years ago, having also recently celebrated the delivery of the operator’s 40th aircraft. We stand ready and committed to supporting THC through its long-term strategy project to make sure our technology provides the high standard of service KSA’s communities expect.”
