Leonardo's UK commercial helicopter operations have just taken flight with the opening of a new £15m support hub in Elstree, Hertfordshire. The strategic move follows the company's major £1bn Ministry of Defence contract win earlier this year and marks its first dedicated maintenance facility for private sector customers.
Located near Elstree Studios, home to several high-profile film production facilities, including those owned by the BBC and Sky, the new site is perfectly placed to meet growing demand from the entertainment industry and London's wealthy elite. The search for a suitable location began during the pandemic, with Elstree ultimately chosen as the ideal base.
The facility will initially employ 10 skilled engineers, rising to around 25 during peak periods, and can handle up to four aircraft at once. A significant £10m investment in components and parts has been made to get operations off the ground.
Leonardo's decision to expand its commercial arm comes after securing a major government contract that had previously raised concerns over the future of its UK manufacturing plant. With that deal now confirmed, attention turns to catering for the private market, where Leonardo's helicopters are highly sought after by high-net-worth individuals.
A recent demonstration flight showcased the convenience and speed of helicopter travel, with a journey from London Heliport in Battersea to Elstree completed in just six minutes – a significant time-saving compared to the usual 90-minute car journey. The luxurious interiors of these private helicopters are also sure to appeal to discerning customers.