UK-based GB Helicopters, previously operating as Cheshire Helicopters, has taken delivery of a second AW109SP twin-engine rotorcraft. "We are expanding our fleet to meet the ever-changing requirements of our current and future clients," says head of marketing Liz Hilton. "Because we already have one AW109SP we are familiar with the shape, luxury interior and performance levels; we know that they exceed customer expectations.

"The aircraft's high performance means that we can perform swift flights including Manchester to London in under an hour. Manufactured in 2014, it is one of the youngest GrandNews currently in the UK and has been extremely busy since joining the fleet. It performed brilliantly and experienced high demand during large events such as Royal Ascot, Glastonbury and The British Grand Prix."

The AW109SP is designed to offer clients a combination of comfort, luxury, speed and efficiency. Seating up to seven passengers, it can accommodate two more guests than its counterpart the AS355. GB Helicopters has added additional operations staff and two further pilots in order to handle demand for the latest aircraft.

"Being situated in the north west of the UK can be both rewarding and challenging," continues Hilton. "Although we do have clients travelling to London and throughout the UK on a regular basis, we still find a lot of business enquiries are based out of London and unfortunately we can be forgotten by London-based requests, even though we are often in the area. If we saw an increase in requests then the relocation of an asset to the south of England would be a possibility.

"We hope that recent investments and expansion will help us thrive and we can continue to grow on this scale."

In addition to the two GrandNews the company operates four AS355N/NPs, an EC135T3+ and an AS350B3 for vip and luxury business charters, aerial filming and utility work.