Ireland’s Waypoint Leasing has agreed to purchase 16 new rotorcrafts from Airbus Helicopters at a cost of more than €100m.

The deal includes a mix of H135, H145 and H175 rotorcrafts, which will be added to Waypoint’s current fleet of more than 140 aircraft.

Once delivered, the new H135 and H145 aircraft will be placed on lease to various operators conducting emergency medical services (EMS) and utility missions worldwide, as well as the H175 being available for oil and gas, search-and-rescue, and public service duties.

In October 2015, Waypoint placed a firm order for 26 H135s and H145 from Airbus. In addition, the company was the first entity to introduce both the Airbus H135 and H145 helicopter into the leasing market.

"We are beginning to see sustained demand for heavy aircraft in the market."

Waypoint Leasing CEO Ed Washecka said: “We are pleased to be growing our fleet with 16 new Airbus helicopters, including the H175, a cost-effective and reliable helicopter.

“We are beginning to see sustained demand for heavy aircraft in the market, while at the same time recognising and responding to the growing demand for interest in ‘Super Medium’ aircraft that are well-suited for a wide range of missions.”

Separately, the company has signed a lease agreement with China’s Shanghai Skyway General Aviation Company (Skyway) for one new Airbus H135 helicopter, making its entry into the Chinese market.

Skyway is planning to deploy its new Airbus H135 helicopter for emergency medical services. 


Image: A helicopter flying in the sky. Photo: courtesy of Airbus Helicopters.