The Helicopter Company expands its horizons regionally with the acquisition of a majority stake in leading aviation services operator Heliconia in Africa
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 17 November 2025 – The Helicopter Company (THC), a PIF Company and Saudi Arabia’s premier commercial helicopter operator, announced its successful acquisition of 76% majority stake in Heliconia, the leading operator in the African rotary-wing aviation services sector. The agreement was signed by Captain Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC, and Daniel Sigaud, President and CEO of Heliconia on November 17, 2025, during Dubai Airshow.
Heliconia’s presence in Africa offers THC an opportunity to expand into new horizons, take part in industry developments and form new partnerships with major players in Africa, in line with THC’s long-term growth plans.
Commenting on the acquisition, Captain Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC, “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.” Captain Martinez added, “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.”
Daniel Sigaud, President and CEO of Heliconia, added: “We are delighted to embark on an exciting new chapter of growth for Heliconia, fueled by this partnership and integration with THC. Together, we will advance the rotor-wing aviation sector’s focus on innovation and ambitious expansion.”
THC will continue to contribute to the PIF’s economic diversification strategy through its services, boosting Saudi Arabia's aviation ecosystem and supporting the growth of the tourism, entertainment, sports, and cultural sectors in the Kingdom.
For any media queries on THC, please contact:
Tania Ahmed
About The Helicopter Company:
THC was established as part of Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF)’s strategy to activate new sectors in Saudi Arabia that support the realization of Vision 2030 by creating an entire new ecosystem for general aviation services and introducing safe and efficient transport services across the kingdom. THC is Kingdom’s premier commercial helicopter operator and has been operating since mid-2019. THC has 60+ aircraft that serve diverse segments, including Emergency Medical Services (EMS), aerial work, private charters and tourism in the Kingdom.
For more information, please visit: https://helicopter.com.sa/
LinkedIn: The Helicopter Company