Winnipeg Police has submitted an item for the city’s Executive Policy Committee on 21st January, seeking approval of a 15 year lease-to-own contract for a new Airbus H125

The estimated full cost of C$13.48M (+ MRST and GST as applicable) is calculated from a monthly lease price of $74,895 for a period of 180 months. The tendered price is open to 31st January – after that a re-tendering exercise would be commenced at an expected 6-8% increase. This is due to a line position being held for delivery in 18-24 months (including completion work) ensuring delivery in late 2026.

There is a need to overhaul the Police’s existing H120 in 2027, which will be avoidable if the H125 arrives on schedule. That aircraft carries the appropriate registration C-GAOL, which was purchased in 2010 for C$3.5 million

The proposal is supported by both Winnipeg mayor Scott Gillingham and Councillor Markus Chambers, the chair of the Winnipeg Police Board

The original tender had three submissions, with both of the other two vendors failing to meet Tender requirements. Canadian Helicopters submitted two options, one of which exceeded the yearly maximum payment of C$900K while the other exceeded the minimum down payment of $300K.

Custom Helicopters also tendered, and all four options exceeded the yearly maximum payment of C$900K. Additionally the company added Terms and conditions that conflict with tender requirements.