Emden-based Northern Helicopter has completed the acquisition of parts of fellow German operator Wiking Helikopter Service, which fell into administration last year.
Northern Helicopter in October emerged as a buyer for Wiking’s harbour pilot transfer operation, plus its maintenance and training units, subject to certain conditions.
In an update, administrator Pluta Rechtsanwalts says those conditions have now been met, and the businesses transferred, along with 44 employees and two rotorcraft – a pair of Airbus Helicopters H145s.
“We are pleased that the takeover could be completed as planned. After the purchase contract was signed with [Northern Helicopter] in September 2022, all conditions have been met,” says Pluta’s Dr Christian Kaufman.
“I would like to thank everyone involved and especially the motivated employees who made this successful solution possible.”
Wiking filed for bankruptcy in June 2022, with Kaufman appointed initially as interim administrator, a position that was then confirmed in September.
While he managed to secure a buyer for the pilot transfer operation, Wiking’s wind farm support business was closed at the end of the year following the completion of a contract.
Wiking blamed rising fuel costs, loss-making contracts and the lingering effects of the coronavirus pandemic for its financial problems.
