OHI agrees its first H160 deal with lessor GDHF

OHI and GDHF agree a deal to secure an Airbus H160.

Omni Helicopters International Group (OHI) has agreed a deal with lessor GDHF to secure the Latin America operator’s first Airbus H160 medium twin helicopter.

Duncan Moore, chief operating officer, OHI Group explained how sustainability concerns played a key role in the selection process. “Through our environmental impact assessments, an integral part of our sustainability strategy, we’ve identified that optimising seat utilisation is one key element in minimising overall CO2 emissions,” said Moore. “In this regard, the Airbus H160 will more efficiently address the needs of some of our existing missions.”

OHI also identified the need to offer alternative types in the medium helicopter class. That was “… in part to arrest increasing engine and avionics support costs on current types …”, said Moore, as the operator wanted to respect customers’ budgets.

Michael York, CEO, GDHF said the business was pleased to accept its first new Airbus H160 and lease it to long-term partner OHI. “The high technology Airbus H160 is a key element of GDHF’s plan to rapidly grow a large portfolio of efficient, cost-effective, multi-mission helicopters,” said York. “We see increasing awareness of the clear advantages of the H160 in the medium helicopter market and with our large 50 x H160 order book, GDHF is well positioned to serve our customers’ needs now and in the future.”

OHI’s subsidiary Omni Táxi Aéreo will be the first operator in Latin America to offer the Airbus H160 to offshore energy sector customers.

Airbus described the H160 helicopter “a game-changer in the energy sector in Latin America”. Regis Magnac, the manufacturer’s vice president, head of Energy, Leasing & Global Account said: “This aircraft is ideally suited for offshore operations, with its reduced fuel consumption, ability to use up to 50% blended SAF, spacious cabin and excellent cockpit visibility.”

The H160 can carry up to 12 passengers and has a range of 480nm (890km) with standard fuel tanks.

Meanwhile, last week Airbus sealed a deal for 28 helicopters with medical firm Global Medical Response (GMR). The order includes six H125s, five H130s, 14 H135s and three H145s.