THC's decision: Piloting the Airbus models H125, H145, and ACH160
In the heart of the Middle East, The Helicopter Company (THC) is playing a critical role in Saudi Arabia's transportation sector, as the Kingdom embarks on its transformative Vision 2030 initiative. Established under the Public Investment Fund (PIF), THC aims to become the premier commercial helicopter operator in the region, addressing the growing and diverse mobility needs of Saudi Arabia.
Since its inception in mid-2019, THC has experienced rapid fleet expansion, now operating over 60 helicopters, more than half of which are Airbus models. This strategic choice for modern, versatile, and safe aircraft reflects THC's commitment to uncompromising safety standards and has earned it significant trust from customers.
One of the most significant additions to THC’s fleet is the ACH160 helicopter. This advanced model symbolises THC’s commitment to deploying the most modern aircraft to meet the highest safety and operational standards. The ACH160's modern capabilities enhance THC’s versatility and efficiency in complex missions, supporting the Kingdom’s expanding transport and emergency service infrastructure.
Captain Abdulmajeed, THC’s Deputy Chief Pilot, is particularly impressed with the ACH160. He cites features like a large Fenestron, Blue Edge Blades, Helionix avionics, fuel-efficient and SAF-ready engines, redundant avionics systems, and simplified maintenance procedures as key advantages for THC’s operations. The ACH160's quick-start procedure, allowing the rotor to be running and the helicopter ready for take-off within two minutes, is a feature that other manufacturers struggle to match.
The ACH160's operational effectiveness and reliability are greatly enhanced by its advanced features. Its avionics system can troubleshoot issues and provide solutions while the aircraft is still in operation, ensuring mission after mission can be delivered safely and efficiently. Moreover, the ACH160's modern climate control system and quick-start procedure contribute to making the helicopter very comfortable for private and corporate customers, a crucial aspect for THC's clientele.
THC's HEMS missions have been a significant asset to Saudi Arabia, saving over 5,000 lives since 2022. The ACH160's robust features, including an efficient air-conditioning system, long-range navigation, and extended endurance, ensure operational excellence even in extreme summer temperatures of up to 50 degrees Celsius. The ACH160's advanced safety features, such as automatic take-off and landing modes, new autopilot modes, and a well-designed avionics system, mitigate distractions and enhance safety.
THC's financial strength, underscored by a recent SAR600 million ($160 million) Islamic credit facility, grants it the financial agility to pursue strategic growth and expand its services domestically and globally, reinforcing its key role in Saudi Arabia’s aviation and transportation sectors.
In summary, THC is foundational to Saudi Arabia’s transportation evolution, with the ACH160 elevating the fleet’s capabilities to meet growing and diverse national demands. As the Kingdom prepares to welcome visitors from around the world and increases its global prominence, the ACH160's features, particularly its efficiency and comfort, are essential for providing top-notch services.
- The Public Investment Fund (PIF), the entity that established The Helicopter Company (THC), also invests in various industries, including finance, energy, aerospace, and technology, to support Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative.
- The ACH160, one of the most significant additions to THC’s fleet, not only enhances THC’s versatility and efficiency in complex missions but also aligns with the Kingdom's focus on adopting modern technology in its growing transportation and emergency service infrastructure.
- THC's strategic expansion and modernization of its fleet, with investments such as the ACH160, demonstrate its commitment to business growth, not just in Saudi Arabia but potentially globally, with the financial backing provided by the Islamic credit facility.