Starspeed director Gary Butcher says that the Bell 429 which the operator is flying for a private owner is performing well, with very good reliability: “Clients seem to like the smooth flight characteristics and we have had no maintenance issues,” he comments.

The aircraft is principally engaged in private flights for the owner, but is also carrying out charter operations based around London. Butcher is particularly impressed with the low maintenance the 429 offers, and also with how advanced the avionics are. A maximum 'all up' weight of 7,000lbs is a drawback, but nonetheless low operating costs and an 'appealing' cabin are expected to entice further business.

“We have confirmed an order for two Agusta AW169s when the new type launches in 18 months. The fleet operates worldwide and is both land and yacht based,” Butcher adds. He says that Starspeed is seeing a modest recovery in charter operations: “Some types are now a little difficult to get hold of again and less modern helicopters are still very out of favour. We are still confident however that we can ably support our owners around the world and look forward to 2014.”