LIMERICK, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Waypoint Leasing (Ireland) Limited (“Waypoint”), the largest independent global helicopter leasing company, today announced that it has closed on a multi-aircraft agreement with RLC, the largest privately held helicopter operator in the Gulf of Mexico. The initial transaction includes the purchase and leaseback of 10 helicopters, including the Bell 407 and Bell 206L4, supporting near-shore shelf production of natural gas in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.
“This is a great opportunity for Waypoint to support one of the leading helicopter operators in the Gulf of Mexico, and marks a significant entrance for us into the U.S. market, the largest helicopter market in the world,” said Ed Washecka, Chief Executive Officer of Waypoint. “We think there’s significant long-term demand in this region and look forward to supporting RLC as it continues to grow.”
Dru Milke, President and CEO of RLC said, “This transaction further solidifies RLC’s balance sheet and will allow us to support our growth initiatives in the coming years. Waypoint has the market expertise, flexibility and access to capital to close transactions quickly, allowing us to focus on our mission of being the industry’s most efficient and customer-focused operator.”
This transaction brings Waypoint’s portfolio to a total of 95 aircraft valued in excess of $1.1 billion and operating in 22 countries.
About Waypoint Leasing (Ireland) Limited
Waypoint Leasing is a global helicopter leasing company that provides operating lease and financing solutions to helicopter operators worldwide. Headquartered in Limerick, Ireland, Waypoint Leasing differentiates itself with a senior management team that has direct helicopter operating and leasing experience in key helicopter markets around the world, having leased helicopters across Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and North and South America. Waypoint Leasing serves a wide range of sectors including oil and gas, emergency medical service, search and rescue, firefighting and governmental support. Further information is available at www.waypointleasing.com.
About RLC
RLC is the largest privately held helicopter operator in the Gulf of Mexico serving energy services providers and oil and gas producers. RLC’s fleet of offshore equipped helicopters transports personnel and equipment to offshore production platforms and drilling rigs. Founded in 1990, RLC is an FAA certified FAR 135 operator and also FAA certified to provide full-service helicopter maintenance at its own repair services facility.