Deal Expands Fleet With New Helos for Variety of Missions

Airbus Helicopters managed to grab itself a pretty big order for a change, inking a deal with LCI and Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Company, Limited (SMFL) for 21 of its latest generation helicopters.

It's good news for the brand, since the rotary wing industry often survives on much smaller orders, but this time around they even got the better of the firm:option breakdown. Of the 21 aircraft 'ordered', 14 are firm, with 7 options should Sumitomo decide to exercise them later on. The purchase includes a mix of options, with a pair of Airbus' light twin H145, a medium twin H160, and their oddly named 'super medium' H175.

The new order will see deliveries begin in 2028, aimed at a variety of segments for the lessor. Some aircraft will be put to work as draft horses in the Eastern offshore energy market, Search & Rescue, medical transport, and the usual range of utility missions. Airbus says it marks the "next phase of the pioneering Flight Path partnership between LCI and Airbus Helicopters, which aims to address the long-term capacity and financing requirements of the industry in a responsible manner." That is, more honestly, corporate speak for keeping the brand in the family, and calling it an eco-friendly, responsible move given Airbus' green bonafides. They go on to cite their lower CO2 emissions compared to competing models, and their SAF-ready design as proof that they're the right choice for the environmentally conscious.

Jaspal Jandu, CEO of LCI, one arm of the deal, commented on the sale. “We are delighted to announce our continued business with Airbus. The helicopter marketplace is facing a number of key capacity decisions as it looks to match supply with underlying demand requirements. This order for up to 21 latest generation helicopters reflects our combined determination to deliver solutions for operators and end users in a lasting, efficient and pragmatic way.”

“This substantial new helicopter order from LCI and SMFL marks the next exciting phase of our Flight Path partnership, and aims to provide the required support, at the substantial scale needed, to the mission critical sector," said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters. "With our combination of technical and financial innovation, and market knowledge and presence, I’m confident there will be many more chapters to come.”

FMI: www.lciaviation.com