Antin acquires majority stake in aerial firefighting operator HP Helicopters
The investment is expected to support fleet expansion as demand grows for heavy-lift helicopter capacity across wildfire and utility operations
Antin Infrastructure Partners has acquired a majority stake in US specialty helicopter operator High Performance Helicopters (HP Helicopters), with plans to expand the company’s fleet.
California-based HP Helicopters conducts aerial firefighting, heavy-lift, utility infrastructure, remote construction, and aerospace research and development operations across the USA.
Founded in 2005 by Brad and Tracey Bauder, the company currently operates in 10 western US states and serves customers including state and federal government agencies.
Antin said the investment would support further expansion of HP Helicopters’ fleet amid increasing demand for heavy-lift helicopter capacity, including for wildfire response.
The investment firm also plans to support the operator’s transition towards more long-term exclusive-use contracts, intended to provide customers with assured aircraft availability.
Angelika Schöchlin, Managing Partner at Antin, and Stephan Feilhauer, NextGen Partner, said: “We see strong potential to take HP Helicopters to the next level by expanding the fleet, further increasing efficiencies, and continuing the transition to long-term exclusive use contracts.”
HP Helicopters is certified to conduct external cargo and human external cargo operations, alongside the transportation of hazardous materials. Its aircraft and crews undertake complex external-load missions and aerial firefighting operations, including in remote environments.
Brad Bauder, CEO and Co-Founder of HP Helicopters, will retain a minority stake in the company following the transaction. “This partnership is about more than just capital; it also gives us access to resources and experience that will help accelerate the company’s growth,” he added.
The acquisition was made through Antin’s €1.2 billion NextGen Infrastructure Fund I.
Further reading: Discover how fire intelligence aircraft are transforming aerial firefighting with real-time data and enhanced situational awareness.
Siân Yates
Siân Yates is News Editor at Voyageur Group and Editor of International Hospitals & Healthcare (IH&H). She holds a Master’s degree in Journalism, and has written across healthcare, travel, food and beverage, science and technology, and environmental topics. Her passion lies in magazine creation and editorial management.