The transaction involves a facility covering twelve Airbus H135 and Leonardo AW109-type helicopters, for three different operators. The helicopters play a vital role in supporting governmental services for HEMS in France and Spain. By aiming to respond within the critical “golden hour” for trauma and emergency care, helicopters such as these significantly improve patients’ chances of survival.

RIVE, an investment firm specialising in sustainable infrastructure and tangible assets, has grown its investments across more than 100 projects since its formation in 2013.

“We are thrilled to partner with RIVE on this important initiative,” says John Shaw, Aviation Finance Associate at Investec. “This collaboration supports our strategy to grow our helicopter financing portfolio. By investing in this important segment of emergency services, we also contribute to the well-being and safety of communities.”

Investec’s involvement in this transaction marks another milestone in its helicopter financing strategy, further diversifying its portfolio of socially sustainable assets. The collaboration with RIVE demonstrates Investec’s dedication to supporting initiatives that provide essential services and contribute to societal resilience.

With a strong presence in Paris, Geneva, and Luxembourg, RIVE has deployed over EUR2.4 billion across more than 100 investments. Its investments include medical and safety aviation, railway rolling stock, and industrial equipment across multiple OECD countries.

“We are pleased to forge this partnership with Investec as we grow our emergency services fleet,” says Raphaël Naim, Investment Director at RIVE Private Investment. “We were impressed by Investec’s knowledge of the helicopter sector, their flexibility and ‘can do’ approach to problem solving that allowed them to provide pragmatic funding solutions.”

Investec was advised by Watson Farley & Williams (Paris) and RIVE was advised by Odi-sé Avocats.