CMIFL is to acquire 100 Airbus helicopters

CM International Financial Leasing Corp., Ltd. (CMIFL) is to acquire 100 Airbus Helicopters Ecureuil-series rotorcraft over five years, with the initial order of 10 units to be delivered in 2016.

CMIFL plans to offer these light single-engine helicopters to operators complete with financing solutions, paving the way for easier and faster development of China’s burgeoning general aviation sector.

“The relaxation of low-altitude airspace regulations in China signals exciting times ahead as helicopters are in need to accelerate infrastructural development and provide for society demands including medical airlift services and passenger transport,” said Wang Rong, CMIFL Chairman & President. “CMIFL endeavors to provide leasing solutions and financial packages to ease the process of acquiring helicopters to meet these needs.”

Announced  at the China Heli-Expo held in Tianjin, the agreement for H125 and H130 Ecureuil versions provides a framework for CMIFL to become the first – and largest – rotorcraft leasing company in China. CMIFL has an equivalent capital of 1 billion euros, and is a subsidiary of China Minsheng Investment – one of the largest Chinese investment companies, with interests in the financing of aviation sector projects.

“This agreement augurs well for Chinese operators who will benefit from new financial leasing solutions and potential customers now have a viable and low-risk solution to launch or expand their commercial rotorcraft operations,” said Norbert Ducrot, President of Airbus Helicopters China. “It is a significant achievement for our team in China, as they are dedicated to always look for solutions to adapt to our customers’ needs.”

CMIFL’s selection has reinforced the position of the H125/H130 family as the best-in-class light single-engine helicopter, renowned for its performance, reliability, safety and multi-mission capabilities. CMIFL’s H125s will be configured for multi-role duties and equipped with a 1.4 metric ton cargo hook. Its H130s are to be outfitted with a new emergency medical services kit from Air Ambulance Technology, which is specially designed to accommodate two pilots (meeting Chinese regulations and responding to the country’s operating conditions), along with one stretcher and up to
three passengers or medical attendants.