Finance for Multi-Aircraft Helicopter Operators
Growing or maintaining a helicopter fleet requires finance that scales with your operation. Whether you are a training school purchasing your third and fourth R44, a charter operator adding a second EC135, or an offshore services company expanding into renewables support with a new AW139, fleet finance offers structural and economic advantages over financing each aircraft in isolation.
Fleet-level facilities allow lenders to take a portfolio view of the security, cross-collateralise where appropriate, and spread their credit and legal costs across multiple assets - all of which can translate into better terms for the operator. The key is presenting the fleet acquisition as a coherent commercial proposition, with clear revenue projections, maintenance plans and ownership structure.
Doulton Bridging Finance has structured fleet finance deals for helicopter operators ranging from two-aircraft training schools to multi-site commercial operators with mixed piston and turbine fleets. We know how to present fleet applications to the lenders most likely to offer competitive terms - and how to structure the deal to work efficiently from both a finance and operational perspective.
| Finance Type | Typical Rate | Typical LTV | Typical Term |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master HP Facility | 6.0% – 7.5% | Up to 85% | 5–12 years |
| Master Finance Lease | 6.2% – 7.8% | Up to 80% | 5–10 years |
| SPV Fleet Structure | 6.0% – 7.5% | Up to 85% | 5–12 years |
| Fleet Refinance | 6.5% – 8.5% | Up to 75% | 3–10 years |
Fleet Finance Benefits
Consolidated Administration
A single facility with one lender simplifies monthly payments, covenant monitoring and annual reviews. It also creates a single point of contact for any restructuring or refinancing requirement.
Cross-Collateralisation
In a fleet facility, lenders can take security across all aircraft rather than relying on a single asset. This can support higher LTV ratios on individual aircraft that might not qualify for the same terms on a standalone basis.
Drawdown Flexibility
Master facilities allow aircraft to be drawn down as they are acquired, rather than requiring all finance to be arranged simultaneously. This is particularly useful for operators growing their fleet progressively over 12–24 months.
Rate Negotiation
Fleet deals provide more negotiating leverage than individual aircraft applications. Lenders competing for a £2m+ fleet facility will sharpen their pencil in ways they might not for a single £400k aircraft purchase.