Story ID: 
Milestone, NHV Partner on Airbus H145s
By: Mark Huber
Caption: New five-bladed Airbus H145s will suport Germany's Federal Armed Services training program. 
Word Count: 229
GECAS unit Milestone Aviation and Belgium-based NHV are partnering to supply two Airbus five-bladed H145 helicopters to support Germany’s Federal Armed Forces’ training program at Laupheim. The new H145 helicopters are the first five-bladed versions to be acquired by Milestone and the first to be operated by NHV. Deliveries began last month. 

In addition to the two five-bladed H145s, Milestone also delivered a four-bladed H145 to NHV in 2020. Milestone now leases eight helicopters into NHV’s fleet and has worked with the company for more than eight years.

Sebastien Moulin, Milestone head of Europe and the Americas, said the helicopters leased to NHV cover “a wide range of missions ranging from oil and gas transportation, emergency services, windfarm maintenance, and now military training. The ability to provide such tailor-made solutions is a key differentiator for Milestone and illustrates the depth of service capability we offer.”

Milestone’s global helicopter fleet is valued at more than $5 billion. The company provides more than 40 customers in 35 countries with products including operating leases, purchase/leasebacks, secured debt financing, engine leasing, and fleet advisory services.  

NHV is majority-owned by investment firm Ardian. It operates more than 60 helicopters in Europe and Africa and employs 550 flying diverse missions including energy and construction. The company is an Airbus Helicopters-approved training organization and official service center.