In recent news, Airbus Helicopters withdrew from bidding for a £1 billion Ministry of Defence contract to build new medium-sized H175M helicopters. As the application deadline closed on the 30th of last month, only Leonardo, another helicopter company, submitted a bid. The US company Lockheed Martin/Sikorsky also left the contest.
Airbus had plans to manufacture these aircraft in Broughton, Flintshire, potentially creating hundreds of jobs. However, Airbus decided not to continue with the NMH (New Medium Helicopter) project as it did not see it as commercially workable.
How Does This Impact The Economy?
The setup of a new helicopter factory would have led to job creation for hundreds of workers. Now, with only Leonardo involved, its Yeovil factory might see some benefits, given its long history in helicopter manufacturing. The decision by Airbus means a missed opportunity for job growth in Broughton and across the UK’s supply chain.
How Are Startups Impacting The Industry?
These startups are bringing solutions and new technologies into the industry, and because of them, new heights are being reached with helicopters. Here are 7 helicopter startups:
1. Skyllence
Skyllence is an international air charter broker specialising in corporate, private, and group air charter flights worldwide. With representation in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, Skyllence offers tailored private travel experiences and a wide range of aviation services.
As a member of the Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest provider of aircraft leasing, maintenance, and insurance (ACMI) services, Skyllence leverages extensive resources and industry expertise.
2. CrewBlast
CrewBlast is a dynamic and innovative platform transforming the aviation industry by optimising crew management and logistics in the charter sector. Designed to streamline operations for charter companies, CrewBlast offers an advanced software solution that automates the traditionally manual processes of crew scheduling, communication, and dispatch.
By leveraging real-time data, CrewBlast enables operators to efficiently manage their flight crews, ensuring timely assignments, regulatory compliance, and enhanced coordination between pilots, ground staff, and clients.
Our platform also integrates seamlessly with existing aviation software systems, providing a user-friendly interface for improved operational efficiency. CrewBlast’s mobile app ensures that crew members are instantly notified of their schedules, while operators can track availability, reduce idle time, and maximise profitability.
CrewBlast is not just about improving logistics; it’s about enhancing safety, reliability, and client satisfaction. Trusted by a growing number of operators in the aviation industry, CrewBlast is redefining crew management in the modern era of charter aviation.
3. Vertical Aerospace
Vertical Aerospace is a startup that creates electric aircraft that take off and land vertically. These aircraft are made to make city travel more convenient, by decreasing how long it takes to commute.
They are designed to be environmentally friendly, aligning with global goals to reduce urban pollution and traffic congestion. Their use of the latest types of aviation technology and the need for quieter, cleaner urban travel solutions makes them a leading startup in the industry.
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4. Flux Aviation
Flux Aviation specialises in electric propulsion systems for aircraft, with a goal to make flying more accessible and less noisy as well.
They develop electric powertrains that suitable for different aircraft types, for more efficiency, and lowering maintenance costs. Their technology supports a shift towards more sustainable aviation practices by offering scalable solutions to aircraft manufacturers.
5. Hill Helicopters
Hill Helicopters designs luxury helicopters that combine the elegance of high-end cars with efficient aerial capabilities. Their helicopters, like the HX50, provide a blend of sophisticated design and practical features, all while being cost-effective.
Their direct control over production processes allows them to offer advanced features without a hefty price tag, making luxury air travel more accessible.
6. FLYJETS
FLYJETS (FLY I Corporation) is a New York State Benefit Corporation with the goal of providing access to aviation worldwide.
The FLYJETS system is an aviation marketplace, mapping engine and travel planning system.
At its core, FLYJETS functions as a marketplace for things that move: the marketplace is an automated, end-to-end solution for charter aircraft and flights.
FLYJETS also functions as a full-service, IATA-certified travel agency.
As a benefit corporation, FLYJETS is committed to doing well by doing good, with all corporate duties and responsibilities directed to both shareholders and stakeholders.
In keeping with its mission, FLYJETS has established its FLYJETS’ FLYGreen Initiative ™, whereby with each flight booking, FLYJETS offers additional FLYRewards – over and above the amount ordinarily granted with each flight – to those users who elect to offset a part of their trip with carbon offsets, and/or fly with some amount of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), pending availability.
The FLY Report is a digital newspaper and newsletter about aviation, space, eVTOLs, renewables and travel (by FLYJETS). Both the FLYJETS aviation marketplace and The FLY Report seek to provide clear information and transparency with respect to both business/charter aviation and the aviation industry at large.
7. Volocopter
Volocopter is pushing for eco-friendly air travel with its all-electric aircraft solutions. This year, they’re set to introduce the VoloCity air taxis Europe, a huge development in urban air mobility.
These air taxis are made with the intention to be as reliable as commercial aircraft and are undergoing certification by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. VoloCity stands out for its zero emission flights, using advanced battery technology to eliminate CO2 and nitric oxide emissions.