Saudi Arabia’s THC Confirms Order for 12 Bombardier Business Jets Valued at $568 Million

The Kingdom’s largest business jet fleet order includes regional and intercontinental aircraft, with options for 48 additional jets that could expand the planned fleet to 60 aircraft

Saudi Arabia’s The Helicopter Company (THC), owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), and Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier have signed definitive purchase agreements for 12 business jets valued at approximately $568 million at 2026 list prices, alongside options to acquire 48 additional aircraft, marking THC’s entry into the private business jet market.

The agreement, announced on November 13, 2026, converts a letter of intent signed during the Farnborough International Airshow in July into a firm order. Bombardier described it as the largest business aviation fleet order of its kind in Saudi Arabia to date.

The confirmed order comprises five Challenger 3500 aircraft, five Global 5500 jets, and two Global 8000 aircraft.

The Challenger 3500 accommodates up to nine passengers and offers a range of approximately 6,297 kilometers, making it suitable for flights within Saudi Arabia, across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and to other regional destinations.

The Global 5500 accommodates up to 16 passengers and has a range of approximately 10,927 kilometers, enabling long-distance operations between Saudi Arabia and international destinations.

Meanwhile, the Global 8000 offers a range of up to 14,816 kilometers, supporting ultra-long-haul nonstop flights, including potential direct connections between Riyadh and Los Angeles, according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Neither company has disclosed a delivery schedule or the expected date for introducing each aircraft model into commercial operations.

Established in 2018, THC began commercial operations in 2019 and currently operates more than 60 helicopters across a range of services, including air ambulance operations, private flights, aerial work, and tourism activities.

Its expansion into business jets represents a significant development in its operating model, with plans to offer business jet charter and aircraft management services in response to demand for flexible and customized travel.

Captain Arnaud Martinez, Chief Executive Officer of THC, said the agreement marks the company's entry into business aviation and represents another step toward establishing an integrated aviation operator capable of serving the Saudi and regional markets.

Eric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bombardier, reaffirmed the manufacturer's commitment to supporting the Saudi operator's expansion through its aircraft portfolio and service network.

The agreement includes options to purchase 48 additional jets, subject to THC's decision to exercise those options. If all are exercised, the total order could expand to 60 aircraft.

Bombardier also announced a commitment to long-term strategic investment in Saudi Arabia, including the establishment of a local presence. However, the company did not disclose the investment value, specific locations, or implementation timeline.

This commitment should not be interpreted as confirmation of a specific maintenance or technical services facility, as details of the planned local investments have yet to be announced.

The agreement is significant for Saudi Arabia's tourism sector as the Kingdom continues developing destinations targeting high-spending travelers and business visitors.

Expanding private aviation capacity could improve connectivity between Saudi, regional, and international airports, offering greater flexibility for customized travel itineraries.

The combination of regional, long-range, and ultra-long-range aircraft could also support different travel requirements, from short business trips to intercontinental journeys.

However, the extent to which tourism destinations benefit will depend on aircraft delivery schedules, operating approvals, airport infrastructure, and actual charter pricing.

THC has not yet announced specific routes for the new fleet, charter rates, or exclusive agreements to serve individual tourism destinations.

The purchase agreements therefore represent a confirmed investment in expanding Saudi Arabia's private aviation capabilities, while their direct impact on passenger traffic and tourism destinations will become clearer as the aircraft enter service.