Saudi Helicopter Company orders 11 new AW139 helicopters from Leonardo
Saudi Helicopter Company has ordered 11 AW139 helicopters from Italy's Leonardo as part of its fleet expansion and modernization plans.
Key Takeaways
AIItaly’s Leonardo, a leading aerospace, defense, and security company, has announced a new order from the Helicopter Company (THC), owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, for 11 AW139 helicopters. The announcement was made during the Farnborough International Airshow 2026.
According to Leonardo’s statement, the helicopters are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2028, under a framework agreement signed with THC in 2024 that allows for the purchase of up to 130 aircraft over several years.
The Italian company said the new order supports THC’s strategy to develop and diversify its fleet, helping to meet the growing needs of Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector. The helicopters will support the company’s expansion in air ambulance services, VIP transport, and offshore energy operations, further strengthening THC’s position as one of the world’s largest AW139 operators.
Strengthening partnership and expanding services
Arnaud Martinez, CEO of the Helicopter Company, stated that the new order reflects the strength of the partnership with Leonardo and will enhance the company’s operational capabilities and support its regional and international expansion plans.
Gian Piero Cutillo, co-general manager of Leonardo and CEO of its helicopter division, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting THC’s long-term plans. He noted that the two sides recently celebrated the delivery of the 40th helicopter to the Saudi company, and that the new order marks a new phase in THC’s fleet modernization and expansion strategy.
AW139: The world’s best-selling helicopter in its class
Leonardo’s statement highlighted that the AW139 is the best-selling helicopter in its class worldwide, with around 1,600 orders from nearly 300 customers in over 90 countries, and about 18% of the global fleet operating in the Middle East.
The new order aligns with THC’s expansion plans and supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by contributing to the development of an advanced and sustainable aviation ecosystem in the Kingdom.