This article is based on an official press release from Ardian.

Ardian Agrees to Sell NHV Group Stake to GD Helicopter Finance

Private investment house Ardian has announced a definitive agreement to sell its majority stake in NHV Group to GD Helicopter Finance (GDHF). The transaction, announced in late December 2025, marks a significant transition for NHV, a leading European business-to-business Helicopters operator headquartered in Ostend, Belgium. The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, subject to customary regulatory approvals.

This acquisition brings together NHV’s established operational footprint in the North Sea and West Africa with GDHF’s substantial capital resources and Orders book. According to the announcement, NHV will maintain its brand identity and continue to operate as a distinct entity under the new ownership structure.

Transaction Overview and Strategic Rationale

Ardian has held a majority share in NHV Group since 2013. Over this 12-year holding period, Ardian supported the operator’s geographic expansion and fleet modernization, notably positioning NHV as the global launch customer for the Airbus H175. The sale to GDHF represents the conclusion of this long-term investment cycle.

GD Helicopter Finance, a Dublin-based lessor launched in 2024, enters the deal with a significant portfolio of new-generation assets. The company is backed by Peter Jiang, Chairman of GDAT, a major general aviation player in China. The acquisition is structured to provide NHV with immediate access to modern aircraft, addressing a critical need in a market currently constrained by manufacturing delays.

“The deal creates a symbiotic relationship where the lessor (GDHF) owns the operator (NHV). This allows GDHF to deploy its capital and aircraft efficiently while NHV gains immediate access to modern fleet upgrades.”

Industry Research Report

Fleet Modernization and Supply Chain Dynamics

A central driver of this transaction is the tightening global Supply-Chain for rotary-wing aircraft. New production slots for “super-medium” helicopters are increasingly scarce. GDHF holds a robust order book that includes 50 Airbus H160s, 20 Airbus H175s, and 10 Leonardo AW189s. By acquiring NHV, GDHF secures a guaranteed placement channel for these assets, while NHV bypasses long wait times for new equipment.

NHV currently operates a fleet of approximately 28 aircraft, primarily consisting of Airbus H175, H145, and Leonardo AW139/AW169 models. The integration with GDHF is expected to accelerate the renewal of this fleet, particularly for offshore wind and energy contracts that demand lower carbon emissions and higher fuel efficiency.

AirPro News Analysis: The “Super-Medium” Shift

We observe that this transaction underscores a broader industry pivot away from heavy helicopters, such as the Sikorsky S-92, toward efficient “super-medium” airframes like the Airbus H175 and Leonardo AW189. The offshore energy sector is prioritizing cost-efficiency and Sustainability, making the availability of these specific aircraft types a competitive differentiator. GDHF’s pre-ordered slots for H175s and H160s provide NHV with a strategic advantage that few competitors can match without enduring multi-year delivery delays.

Leadership and Operational Continuity

Despite the change in ownership, the companies have emphasized stability. NHV Group will continue to be led by CEO Lars-Henrik Thorngreen, who was appointed in November 2024. Thorngreen, who previously served as COO, is tasked with steering the company through this ownership transition while maintaining service levels for critical missions, including Search and Rescue (SAR), Harbor Pilot Services, and offshore transport.

The press release notes that NHV will remain “operationally independent.” This distinction is likely vital for maintaining regulatory compliance and client trust, particularly given the sensitive nature of NHV’s government and energy sector contracts in Europe.

AirPro News Analysis: Global Capital in European Infrastructure

While GDHF is domiciled in Ireland, the backing of GDAT and Chairman Peter Jiang introduces significant Chinese-affiliated capital into the European critical infrastructure space. The explicit emphasis on operational independence in the announcement suggests the parties are cognizant of potential regulatory scrutiny. We anticipate that European regulators will closely monitor the governance structures to ensure that control over sensitive operations, such as search and rescue, remains localized and compliant with EU security standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the transaction close?

The deal is expected to close in Q1 2026, pending regulatory approvals.

Will NHV change its name or brand?

No. NHV Group will retain its brand identity and operational independence.

What aircraft does GDHF have on order?

GDHF’s order book includes 50 Airbus H160s, 20 Airbus H175s, and 10 Leonardo AW189s.

Sources

• Ardian Press Release
• Helicopter Investor

This article is based on an official press release from Desert Jet.

Desert Jet Expands to Colorado, Managing New Hangar Complex at Yampa Valley Regional Airport

Desert Jet, the Thermal, California-based business aviation service provider, has announced its first major expansion outside of its home state. According to an official company announcement released on December 17, 2025, Desert Jet has secured an agreement to manage and operate two newly constructed hangars at Yampa Valley Regional Airport (KHDN) in Hayden, Colorado. The airport serves as the primary gateway for the popular Steamboat Springs ski destination.

The agreement marks a significant strategic shift for Desert Jet, which recently divested its charter subsidiary to focus exclusively on Fixed Base Operator (FBO) and maintenance services. By partnering with developers Wiens Real Estate Ventures and HDN Hangar Investment Group, Desert Jet aims to address a critical infrastructure gap in the Colorado high country while laying the groundwork for a future full-service FBO presence.

Addressing the High-Country Hangar Shortage

The expansion comes at a time of acute demand for private jet infrastructure in the region. According to data cited in the announcement, private jet operations at KHDN have surged by over 75% in the last five years. Despite this rapid growth, the airport has not seen the construction of new hangar facilities in nearly two decades, with the last significant additions completed in 2006.

The new development, which broke ground in September 2024, includes two heated hangars designed to withstand the harsh winter climate of the Rockies. Each hangar measures 28,800 square feet, creating a combined total of approximately 57,600 square feet of premium storage space. The facilities are scheduled for completion in the fall of 2025, timed to coincide with the 2025-2026 ski season.

Desert Jet emphasized that the facilities are engineered to accommodate the largest ultra-long-range business jets currently in operation, including the Gulfstream G800 and Bombardier Global 8000. This capability is essential for the high-net-worth demographic frequenting Steamboat Springs, who often require indoor, heated storage to prevent ice accumulation and protect sensitive aircraft systems during winter stays.

Strategic Pivot and Future FBO Ambitions

This expansion follows Desert Jet’s strategic pivot in September 2024, when the company sold its charter division to Advanced Air. That divestiture was intended to free up resources for expanding the company’s FBO and maintenance footprint. The KHDN project represents the first tangible result of that strategy.

Jared Fox, CEO of Desert Jet, highlighted the significance of moving into the Colorado market:

“We are proud to extend Desert Jet’s national reputation for service excellence to Steamboat Springs and the Yampa Valley. This expansion represents the next chapter in our mission to deliver the highest standard of aviation services to new destinations across the country.”

While the current agreement focuses on hangar management, providing secure storage and handling for based tenants and transient aircraft, Desert Jet has explicitly positioned this move as a “foundational step” toward establishing a world-class, full-service FBO. Currently, Atlantic Aviation holds the monopoly on full-service FBO operations at KHDN. Desert Jet’s entry introduces a potential competitor to the field, signaling long-term plans to compete for fuel sales and comprehensive ground handling services.

Tim Wiens, Principal of Wiens Real Estate Ventures, expressed confidence in the partnership:

“We are excited to partner with Desert Jet, whose reputation for excellence in aviation services aligns perfectly with our vision for Yampa Valley. This collaboration is a pivotal step in enhancing the aviation experience in this world-class destination.”

AirPro News Analysis

The entry of Desert Jet into Yampa Valley Regional Airport represents a classic “beachhead” strategy in the FBO industry. Breaking into an airport with an established incumbent monopoly, in this case, Atlantic Aviation, is notoriously difficult due to lease restrictions and space limitations. By securing management rights to independently developed real estate, Desert Jet establishes an operational footprint without immediately needing to build a fuel farm or terminal from scratch.

This move also reflects a broader industry trend where FBOs are decoupling from charter operations to specialize in high-margin ground infrastructure. With the “hangar shortage” affecting an estimated 71% of General Aviation airports nationally, companies that control the physical space for large-cabin jets hold significant leverage. If Desert Jet successfully transitions this hangar management contract into a full FBO license, it could significantly alter the pricing and service landscape for private aviation in the Colorado Rockies.

Sources

• Desert Jet Press Release

This article is based on official releases and media briefings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

NTSB Releases Preliminary Findings on Statesville Cessna Citation Crash

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released initial findings and visual assets regarding the fatal crash of a Cessna Citation 550 business jet in Statesville, North Carolina. The accident, which occurred on December 18, 2025, resulted in the deaths of all seven occupants, including former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and members of his family.

According to official updates from the agency, investigators have recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and identified key details regarding the aircraft’s final moments. The NTSB has also made high-resolution photos and b-roll footage of the accident site available to the public as part of their transparency efforts during the ongoing investigation (Case ID: WPR26MA063).

Crash Sequence and “Emergency Landing” Communication

The aircraft, identified by registration N257BW, departed Statesville Regional Airport (SVH) at approximately 10:05 AM EST, bound for Sarasota-Bradenton (SRQ). NTSB investigators report that roughly 10 minutes after takeoff, the pilot initiated a return to the airport, executing a left turn to align with Runway 28.

During media briefings, NTSB officials revealed a critical piece of communication sent from inside the cabin. A passenger on board sent a text message to a family member shortly before impact.

“Emergency landing.”

, Text message sent by a passenger, confirmed by NTSB officials

The crash sequence ended when the aircraft struck approach lighting stanchions approximately 1,800 feet short of the runway threshold. Following the initial impact, the jet collided with trees and the airport perimeter fence before coming to rest and catching fire. The debris field suggests the aircraft was configured for landing with landing gear down and flaps set, indicating it was “stable on approach” but flying too low.

Investigation Status and Site Analysis

NTSB Board Member Michael Graham and Investigator-in-Charge Dan Baker provided updates on the physical evidence recovered from the site. While the aircraft sustained extensive fire damage, investigators have identified the engines and flight control surfaces within the wreckage.

Recorder Recovery

The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) has been successfully recovered and transported to the NTSB laboratory in Washington, D.C., for analysis. Officials noted that the aircraft was not equipped with a Flight Data Recorder (FDR), as it was not required by regulation for this specific airframe, which was manufactured in 1981.

Weather Factors

At the time of the accident (approximately 10:15 AM EST), weather conditions at Statesville Regional Airport included low clouds, mist, and drizzle. Visibility was reported to be approximately 3 to 5 miles. These environmental factors will be a key component of the ongoing inquiry.

Visual Assets and Public Docket

To maintain transparency, the NTSB has published a collection of visual assets on the investigation’s official webpage. These materials include:

• Debris Field Footage: Panning shots showing the charred wreckage and the impact area near the runway threshold.
• Engine Documentation: Close-up images of investigators examining the Pratt & Whitney JT15D engines.
• Site Walkthroughs: Footage of the investigative team performing initial site assessments.

All future updates, including the preliminary report (expected within 30 days), the public docket, and the final report, will be posted to the same location.

AirPro News Analysis

The absence of a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) on older business jets like this 1981 Cessna Citation 550 is not uncommon, but it places significantly more weight on the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and physical site analysis. Without digital flight data parameters, investigators must rely heavily on audio cues, radar tracks, and the physical position of actuators and switches in the wreckage to reconstruct the flight path. The fact that the aircraft was “stable on approach” but 1,800 feet short suggests a focus on altitude awareness, altimeter settings, or visual illusions caused by the reported mist and low clouds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who were the victims of the crash?
Authorities have confirmed seven fatalities. The victims include Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, pilot Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth.

When will the cause of the crash be determined?
The NTSB typically releases a preliminary report within 30 days of the accident, which contains factual information but no probable cause. A final report, including the probable cause, usually takes 12 to 24 months to complete.

Was the airport controlled?
No. Statesville Regional Airport is a non-towered airport. Pilots use a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to coordinate their movements.

Where can I view the photos and b-roll?
The NTSB has hosted all visual assets on their official investigation webpage linked below.

Sources

• NTSB Investigation Page (WPR26MA063)
• NTSB Media Briefing