British International plans to expand its on-shore helicopter operations less than four months after the UK company was part of a £35 million ($51 million) management buy-out. The buy-out allowed British International's previous owners Canadian Helicopter to concentrate on its core off-shore activities which it operates under its trade names Scotia Helicopters, Bond Helicopters and Brintel in the UK.
British International, believed to be the largest UK controlled helicopter operator, with UK Government, military and law enforcement contracts, is eyeing the scheduled passenger services market as its main focus for expansion. The company already operates a regular shuttle service between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly in the South West of England, using a Sikorsky S-61.
British International finance director Peter Sorby says: "There is an overwhelming need to alleviate slot congestion at Europe's busiest hubs, particularly London Heathrow. We believe that helicopters and eventually tiltrotors will provide the solution, by feeding both the regional and major airports while at the same time freeing up runway capacity."
British International is evaluating the EH Industries EH101 and S-92 as contenders for its existing and future scheduled services.
Source: Flight International