Waypoint delivers AW139 to HEVILIFT, Australian market picking up

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Waypoint Leasing has delivered one Agusta Westland 139 to Australian service operator HEVILIFT

The helicopter will be used for offshore oil and gas operations in the Asia Pacific. The delivery also marks the fourth anniversary of the two companies’ first deal.

Speaking to Helicopter Investor, Ed Washecka, Waypoint’s CEO, said, “Waypoint has a good relationship with HEVILIFT. They were our second ever customers. They want to start introducing the AW139 into their offshore fleet so we struck a deal for one of our helicopters we got back from heli operator CHC.”

Washecka added, “Business is better than expected so far this year. I think we have seen a strengthening of rates, especially for an aircraft like the AW139.”

Waypoint’s portfolio comprises 145 aircraft on lease to more than 30 customers in 30 different countries. It is total asset base is valued at more than $1.6 billion.

Commenting on the delivery, Paul Booij, group managing director at HEVILIFT said, “Waypoint has been a trusted partner for years. Each transaction is seamless and professional and we will continue to work with Waypoint for their technical expertise, flexible lease offerings, and understanding of the operational considerations of our business.”

Australian market

Despite the drop in oil and gas prices, helicopter support in the market is still necessary and is growing. Australia has seen a recent surge in oil and gas support placements.

Washecka continued: “Australia is definitely an improving market in oil and gas support. We’ve seen multiple operators add S92, Super Mediums and AW139s to their Australian operations over the past year.”

Waypoint opened a regional office in Australia last year, which is led by company executive Chris Wakefield. It also leased two Airbus H135s to Australian operator Mackay in March. The two aircraft operate out of Mackay’s North Queensland base on specialist helicopter marine pilot transfer operations.