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ACE 2026 - September 8th

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SAF Aerogroup bolsters fleet with H225 acquisitions
SAF Aerogroup is strengthening its heavy helicopter offering to multinationals, governments and commercial companies worldwide with the purchase of two H225s from Rotortrade, and it may purchase four more.
RotorTrade is determined to meet the growing demand for heavy helicopters around the world, where requirements are rising while options are becoming more limited.
Read this story in our August 2023 printed issue.

SAF Aerogroup, parent company of South Africa-based operator Starlite Aviation, has acquired two H225 helicopters from dealer and distributor Rotortrade. This strategic investment significantly enhances its capabilities to undertake challenging missions in austere environments. Furthermore, discussions are under way to secure up to four additional H225 helicopters from Rotortrade’s inventory.

Renowned for its versatility and reliability, the H225 is an ideal choice for a wide range of missions, including multi-role logistical and utility operations in the most hostile and severe environments. With this platform’s performance, the acquisition aligns with SAF Aerogroup’s dedication to providing 24/7 mission-ready aircraft for complex assignments, particularly in logistics, medevac and humanitarian operations.

CEO Tristan Serretta says: “SAF Aerogroup strives to offer a full range of services to multinational organisations, governments and commercial companies worldwide. The acquisition of two H225 helicopters from Rotortrade strengthens our fleet significantly and brings us closer to achieving our vision. We are excited to partner with Rotortrade, with whom we share the same values of integrity, team spirit and excellence. We are happy and confident with the flexibility and unique solutions it is able to provide and look forward to extending our partnership.”

Rotortrade EVP of global sales Aurelien Blanc adds: “Rotortrade has been at the forefront of the H225 repurposing drive into utility and multi-role missions. With a track record of selling more than a dozen Super Pumas in recent years and through significant investments, Rotortrade is well positioned to extend its leadership position in this segment. We are determined to meet the growing demand for heavy helicopters in many parts of the world, where requirements are fast rising while options are becoming more limited. We take great pride in having the chance to partner with SAF Aerogroup and its subsidiary, Starlite, with whom we believe we share the same values of integrity, excellence and team spirit.”

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