Waypoint Leasing signs purchase and leaseback agreement with Omni Helicopters International S.A.

Waypoint Leasing (Ireland) Limited, the largest independent global helicopter leasing company, today announced that it has closed on a multi-aircraft agreement with Omni Helicopters International S.A., a strategic partnership between Stirling Square Capital Partners and Omni Group. The aircraft are operating for Omni Taxi Aereo, Brazil's largest helicopter service operator to the offshore industry by fleet size. All aircraft operate in support of long-term contracts within the offshore oil and gas sector in Brazil.

“This is a great opportunity for Waypoint to support one of the leading helicopter operators, and in one of the largest and most dynamic helicopter markets in the world,” said Ed Washecka, chief executive officer of Waypoint. “Despite the current market conditions, we think there's significant long-term demand in Brazil and look forward to supporting Omni as it continues to grow worldwide.”

“It is important for us to have a financial partner that understands our business,” said Rui Almeida, President of OHI. “The Waypoint team is made up of former operators who can relate to our issues and understand our needs. This is a new lessor relationship for us and we were impressed with their knowledge, commercial approach and speed of execution.”

Waypoint's portfolio exceeds $1.4 billion in total assets comprised of 120 aircraft operating for 16 customers in 26 countries. Additionally, Waypoint has firm and option orders with aircraft manufacturers for more than 125 helicopters valued at more than $1.7 billion, to be delivered over the next five years.