Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace Events

Helitech: Leonardo sells two AW139s in UK

Leonardo today announced the sale of a further two AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopters to customers in the UK for corporate/VIP passenger transport, at the Helitech International event, taking place in ExCeL London, 3rd – 5th October 2017.

Over 30 AW139s are currently operating in the UK.

One aircraft will be managed & operated by Fairoaks Airport-based Starspeed, part of Luxaviation Helicopters – the world’s largest operator of VIP and VVIP helicopters. Starspeed already operates the AW169, part of the unique AW Family of helicopters that includes the AW139 and AW189. The other aircraft will be used by an undisclosed UK-based customer for corporate transport. Both aircraft will be delivered in the first half of 2018.

Advertisement
Gulfstream RT

Gary Butcher, Commercial Director, Starspeed says: "We are delighted to be adding the first AW139 to Starspeed’s existing fleet of 24 helicopters. Our client specifically selected the AW139 for its performance, ride quality and, importantly, its cabin space that is unsurpassed in helicopters within this category. We are looking forward to the delivery of this bespoke aircraft to our managed UK-based charter fleet in early 2018."

Charlotte Pedersen, Chief Executive Officer, Luxaviation Helicopters, says: “This AW139 will be a great addition to our global fleet of more than 270 fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. Starspeed supports our offering to clients of a truly integrated portfolio of helicopter and jet aviation services from the Luxaviation Group. The continued growth of our fleet allows us to offer our customers the most efficient and safe flights alongside exclusive VIP charter services.”

The AW139 surpasses all other intermediate twin-engine helicopters in terms of performance, cruise speed (165 knots / 306 kph), safety and comfort – essential qualities for private and executive transport missions. The AW139 features the largest unobstructed cabin in its class, accommodating passengers in a comfortable and quiet environment.

Advertisement
ODU RT

With decades of experience crafting personalized interiors, Leonardo Helicopters offers a dedicated professional design team that works with each customer to make sure that their cabin furnishings and materials exceed their expectations. There are many seating and trim options available as well as choices of telecommunications & entertainment systems, refreshments and stowage spaces, cabin lighting and air conditioning.

 

Advertisement
Cranfield University
UK Government invests £63m to advance SAF production

Aerospace

UK Government invests £63m to advance SAF production

22 July 2025

Passengers are a step closer to greener flights as the UK Aviation Minister Mike Kane today announced the 17 UK companies who will share £63 million to accelerate sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production.

Zelim’s SWIFT optimises airport rescue ops

Aerospace Security

Zelim’s SWIFT optimises airport rescue ops

21 July 2025

In a development that bolsters its emergency response and rescue capabilities in the event of a ditched aircraft, a major airport in Southeast Asia has installed Edinburgh based Zelim’s SWIFT Rapid Man Overboard Rescue Conveyor aboard its new fast maritime rescue and recovery vessels.

Skyports complete safe transport of bunker samples

Aerospace Security

Skyports complete safe transport of bunker samples

21 July 2025

Skyports Drone Services (Skyports) has completed Singapore’s first Shore-to-Ship beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone deliveries and collections of bunker fuel samples to and from bunker tanker vessels, demonstrating drones’ potential to safely operate in potentially hazardous marine refuelling environments, improving port safety, ...

Flights increase as summer hots up

Aerospace

Flights increase as summer hots up

18 July 2025

UK air traffic in June increased by 2.5% on the same month last year as NATS, the UK’s major provider of air traffic services, safely handled 237,215 flights, up more than 2,600 on May.

Advertisement
Gulfstream RT
ZeroAvia granted patents for hydrogen-electric engine development

Aerospace

ZeroAvia granted patents for hydrogen-electric engine development

17 July 2025

ZeroAvia today announced it has been awarded nine new patents this year so far, with many critical to the company’s roadmap for scaling hydrogen-electric engines for large regional aircraft.

BBGA co-hosts Isle of Man Aviation Conference

Aerospace

BBGA co-hosts Isle of Man Aviation Conference

17 July 2025

For the first time, the British Business General Aviation Association (BBGA) joined Martyn Fiddler as joint hosts of the 13th Isle of Man Aviation Conference, bringing together 120 business aviation delegates at Douglas’ Villa Marina venue.

Advertisement
ODU RT