FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom — The Helicopter Company (THC), Saudi Arabia’s leading commercial helicopter operator, has placed a firm order for 11 additional Leonardo AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopters during the Farnborough International Airshow 2026.

The helicopters will be delivered between 2027 and 2028 under the framework agreement signed by THC and Leonardo at HAI Heli-Expo (now Verticon) in 2024. The agreement provides for the potential acquisition of up to 130 helicopters over several years.

The new aircraft will support THC’s fleet optimization and expansion strategy while reinforcing its dual-OEM fleet approach. Once delivered, the additional AW139s will further strengthen the company’s position as one of the world’s largest operators of the type.

The helicopters will be deployed across THC’s expanding portfolio of services, including Emergency Medical Services (EMS), VIP transport and offshore operations.

Captain Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC, said: "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."

Gian Piero Cutillo, Co-General Manager of Leonardo and Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, said: "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."

The AW139 remains the best-selling helicopter in its category, with nearly 1,600 aircraft ordered worldwide by around 300 customers in more than 90 countries. Approximately 18% of the global AW139 fleet currently operates in the Middle East, reflecting the aircraft’s strong presence across the region.

The latest acquisition also supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives by expanding the Kingdom’s commercial aviation capabilities and strengthening its general aviation ecosystem.

About The Helicopter Company : The Helicopter Company (THC), a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, is Saudi Arabia's leading commercial helicopter operator. Established in 2018 and operational since 2019, THC provides emergency medical services, aerial work, tourism, private charter, offshore transport and other aviation services across the Kingdom. Its continued fleet expansion supports Saudi Vision 2030 by helping develop the country's general aviation sector and broader transport ecosystem.

About Leonardo : Leonardo is an international industrial group active in aerospace, defence and security. The company develops capabilities across helicopters, aircraft, electronics, cyber security and space, employs more than 62,000 people worldwide and operates in around 150 countries. Leonardo is listed on the Milan Stock Exchange.