Interview: Captain Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC
Like in many other sectors, innovation and adaptability are key to sustained growth in the aviation sector. Can you provide specific examples of how THC’s services have evolved to meet the changing needs of your clients or partners, especially now that there is a strong focus on hospitality and tourism in the region?
Innovation is the cornerstone of THC’s operations, and we are continuously breaking new ground in our commitment to setting new standards in the aviation industry. THC’s innovative approach extends to our fleet, services, and operational strategies, ensuring that we remain at the cutting edge of aviation technology and practices.
THC’s initial goal was to provide immediate, tailor-made solutions for giga projects such as Red Sea Global and NEOM. As these projects progress, THC is evolving its service offerings to meet their changing needs. We are expanding our services to hospitality and tourism, sectors expected to become key drivers of the Kingdom’s non oil economy, whilst continuing our important work in construction-related aerial work and medical support.
Advanced air mobility (AAM) and urban air mobility (UAM) are two major trends in aviation. How are you positioning THC to leverage these trends, and what initiatives or partnerships have you undertaken in these areas?
THC wholeheartedly embraces and actively progresses AAM and UAM in the Kingdom, as exemplified through our recent partnerships and initiatives. In August 2023, THC signed an agreement with Altanfeethi to offer advanced transportation services from operator terminals to customers to meet the growing demand for streamlined and convenient urban transport services in the Kingdom.
More recently, in June 2024, THC signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Riyadh Municipality under which THC will establish three helicopter landing sites in Diriyah, at Edge of the World, and in Ushaiqer. The MoU aims to develop a future vision for air mobility in Riyadh by fostering private-sector cooperation and enhancing visitors’ access to tourist destinations. Sustainability is also a key issue in the industry. What strategies has the company implemented to reduce its environmental impact and promote sustainability in aviation?
THC prioritizes sustainability as a core business objective and we constantly consider our environmental impact in the work that we do. THC is working to reduce energy consumption, recycle waste, and minimize emissions from our operations.
Our sustainability strategy includes the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) standards, which emphasize the use of waste-derived or renewable sources to significantly reduce aviation’s carbon footprint. We also continuously invest in lower-noise aircraft, as evident in our acquisition of 10 H160 aircraft with advanced technology, significantly reducing noise levels and showcasing our commitment to environmentally responsible aviation. To meet this growth, we are enhancing our regional capabilities to stay close to our customers. For instance, we are expanding our training facilities in the UAE and Saudi Arabia through our partnership with PSAA, providing localized training solutions for pilots and technicians.

With all these developments and expansion plans, how does THC ensure that safety remains a core priority in its operations?
THC’s commitment to safety and excellence underpins all our operations. Our rigorous adherence to safety protocols and regulations ensures that we provide reliable and secure services to our clients. THC’s safety record speaks for itself — we have flown more than 22,500 flight hours with zero accidents. THC will never compromise when it comes to its world-class operations and the safety of our customers and employees.

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