GDHF signs €77m-plus finance deal with Bank of China and Helaba

GDHF has agreed a finance deal for multiple H160s similar to the one pictured. (Photo credit: Airbus Helicopters).

Lessor GD Helicopter Finance has agreed a finance deal worth more than €77m ($81.34m) with Bank of China, London Branch and German bank Helaba Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen to acquire “multiple” new Airbus H160 helicopters.

GDHF will use the proceeds of the loan agreement, supported by Bpifrance Assurance Export (Bpifrance), to acquire the H160s for delivery over the next two years. The Bank of China acted as arranger, facility agent and security trustee.

Michael York, CEO, GDHF said: “GDHF is very pleased to enter into this finance agreement which will further enhance our ability to support our customers globally and provide them additional highly effective multi-mission H160 helicopters on lease.”

York thanked Bank of China, Helaba, Bpifrance and Airbus Helicopters for their trust and confidence in the GDHF team, the GDHF business model and its customers. “GDHF sees this financing agreement as a strong endorsement of the strength of the helicopter market globally and the ability of GDHF to meet the clear market need for efficient new technology helicopters that GDHF will provide using our large Airbus Helicopters order book,” he added.

Arnaud Fiscel, head of Transportation, Bank of China, London Branch said: “As a leading transportation financier, we were delighted to support both GDHF and Airbus Group on the structuring of this landmark transaction. Bank of China’s involvement on the financing of such an innovative, latest technology, asset is a testimony of the strategic importance of aviation to the Bank.”

Regis Magnac, vice president and head of Energy, Leasing & Global Accounts, Airbus Helicopters congratulated the GDHF team on its agreement with Bank of China, London Branch, Helaba. “The H160, with 68 patents, represents a significant leap in helicopter technology and is now actively serving diverse and critical missions across the globe,” said Magnac. “Its innovative design, reduced fuel consumption and exceptional operational capabilities make it a standout asset for financiers and lessors, highlighting its strong market appeal and long-term value potential.”

GDHF was advised by Watson Farley & Williams (London). Bank of China and Helaba were advised by Norton Rose Fulbright (Paris).

Meanwhile, last month GDHF agreed a deal with Omni Helicopters International Group (OHI) to secure the Latin American operator’s first Airbus H160.