The Helicopter Company (THC), a Saudi Public Investment Fund company and Saudi Arabia’s premier commercial helicopter operator, has successfully acquired a 76 per cent majority stake in Heliconia, the African rotary-wing aviation services provider. The agreement was signed by Captain Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC, and Daniel Sigaud, president and CEO of Heliconia, during the recent Dubai Airshow.

Heliconia’s presence across Africa provides THC with opportunities to expand, participate in industry developments and form new partnerships with major players in the region, in line with THC’s long-term growth strategy.

Martinez says: “This acquisition will enable THC to expand into north and west Africa, jump-start our entry into the offshore sector and further strengthen our position as the catalyst for the creation of Saudi Arabia’s global general aviation footprint. The shared commitment with Heliconia to delivering quality services and setting the highest safety standards highlights the significance of this partnership for both parties. And while THC will benefit from Heliconia’s expertise in offshore services in Africa, it will allow Heliconia to gain access to THC’s strategic value proposition and promising growth opportunities.”

Sigaud adds: “We are delighted to embark on an exciting new chapter of growth for Heliconia, fuelled by this partnership and integration with THC. Together, we will advance the rotor-wing aviation sector’s focus on innovation and ambitious expansion.”

The acquisition supports THC’s contribution to the Public Investment Fund’s economic diversification strategy, strengthening Saudi Arabia’s aviation ecosystem and supporting growth in the Kingdom’s tourism, entertainment, sports, and cultural sectors.