SAF Hélicoptères acquires Starlite Aviation Group

SAF Aerogroup, whose main shareholders are Oaktree Capital Management and BPI France, is changing its business model to consolidate its position as the French leader and a major player in the helicopter and fixed wing service sectors worldwide, by opening to new markets in Africa and the Middle East.

The new group of 500 employees, manages eight maintenance bases, two training centers, five flight simulators and operates a fleet of 78 mission aircraft for Medevac operations, EMS, light and heavy lift work, and VIP transport. In addition, the pilot training fleet consists of 40 helicopters and fixed wing aircraft, including three twin turboprop aircraft.

SAF Aerogroup operates in France, Ireland, Belgium, South Africa, Mali, and Niger with a consolidated turnover of US$100 million. Within three years, SAF is expected to create 100 to 300 additional jobs and a turnover of 150 million dollars.

New opportunities worldwide

The acquisition opens new market opportunities for the SAF Aerogroup geographically and expands their areas of expertise. Starlite is a leading multi-faceted aviation group of companies, offering helicopter and fixed wing aircraft for challenging missions in austere environments and a manned and UAV pilot training academy, supported by numerous dedicated maintenance divisions across Africa.

Gareth Schnehage, CEO of Starlite Aviation, commented: “We are delighted to be joining the SAF Aerogroup. It will enable us to develop our business and find new synergies. Ultimately, it is our customers and employees who will benefit from this merger. It is also excellent news for our business sector and for our partners.”