Waypoint debuts in Colombia

Leonardo AW139

Irish lessor Waypoint has agreed to a sale and leaseback agreement for one AW139 with Colombian operator HELICOL, the first lease transaction it has made in Colombia.

The helicopter will be used to support offshore oil and gas operations for a number of major oil companies. HELICOL is updating its helicopter fleet across its operations.

Steffen Bay, Waypoint vice president, sales and relationship management for Latin America, said: “HELICOL has been modernizing its helicopter fleet over the last year, and we are pleased to be part of that growth. The AW139 is a new technology aircraft, which will allow HELICOL to operate for all major oil companies currently operating in Colombia.

“Their continued demand for offshore-equipped aircraft is a testament to their vision and to improving market conditions. We look forward to working alongside HELICOL to continue to help the company meet its financial and operational objectives.”

HELICOL operates a rotary fleet of Bell 212s, Bell 412s, AW119, AW139, As-365n3s and Mi171s. Its operations include offshore, cargo transport and medical evacuation.

Juan David Restrepo Botero, HELICOL general manager, said: “We are pleased to have completed this transaction with Waypoint. In addition to their technical expertise and operational perspective, we choose to work with them to benefit from their flexible lease options.”