London, England, – Airbus Helicopters and Waypoint Leasing (Ireland) Limited, the largest independent global helicopter leasing company, announced today that Waypoint has agreed to acquire up to 20 Airbus H135 aircraft over the next three years. Waypoint is the first lessor to acquire and lease the H135, and currently owns 25 Airbus aircraft in its global fleet.

The agreement covers the purchase of up to 20 twin-engine H135 helicopters – the leader in its class. Waypoint will primarily lease the H135s to operators performing EMS missions worldwide. With their dedicated flexible configuration and multi-role capabilities, the H135s will also be able to address other public services markets such as law enforcement and rescue, as well as offshore operations.

Ed Washecka, Chief Executive Officer of Waypoint Leasing, said, “We are pleased to be the pioneer acquirer of the H135, as we continue to offer operators state-of-the-art helicopters for EMS missions and other critical operations. The H135 complements our current Airbus offerings, which include the H225 and H145, and adds scale and diversity to our fleet.”

With this agreement, both companies are reinforcing their ability to address strategic growth market segments, combining Airbus Helicopters’ market knowledge and undisputed product references with Waypoint’s flexible lease solutions and commercial agility.

“This signature represents a significant step in the development of our partnership with Waypoint, and we continue to work together to support their objectives,” said Dominique Maudet, Executive Vice President Global Business and Services at Airbus Helicopters. “They were the first lessor to acquire the H145 and now the first to order the H135 – two aircraft that will bolster their success in fast-growing market segments.”

The multi-purpose H135 is the unbeaten market leader in the class. It is the reference helicopter for a diverse range of missions such as emergency medical services (EMS) or police. Thanks to its performance, efficiency and cabin flexibility, it is the best value for money in its category. The H135 allows operators to embark on missions even in difficult weather and terrain, thanks to its excellent OEI (one engine inoperative) performance and new-generation avionics.

Airbus Helicopters and Waypoint have also taken their partnership a step further with the announcement a joint agreement to work together to further promote the advantages of leasing helicopters with Airbus Helicopters aircraft.

Press release and picture Airbus Helicopters