In the past, we have noted that the move of Helitech in the UK from Duxford to London was not supported by many in the industry. In 2015, organisers Reed told HeliHub.com that the move was being made at the request of four named manufacturers – a statement which Sikorsky denied, saying they preferred the previous open airfield environment at Duxford. It was HeliHub.com who broke the story in September 2012 of Helitech’s move to London from 2013.

As Helitech 2016 opened in Amsterdam this morning, there were just four helicopters on display – Airbus brought an H130 and an H145, Leonardo brought an AW169, and Bell had a 429. In terms of hardware, there was also a UAV and the cabin of an old Bo105, but those don’t count when you are looking at manufacturer commitment to an exhibition. Hardly confirmation of support. No aircraft to represent Enstrom, Guimbal, Marenco, MD Helicopters, Robinson or Sikorsky.

Helitech 2015 in London was the first time the organisers have not published visitor numbers. We wonder whether they will do so for 2016. Organisers Reed cancelled Helitech 2010 in Brazil and Helitech 2012 in Portugal. The scope of the exhibition in Amsterdam this week makes us wonder whether it will revert to alternate years in London, or try another continental Europe location other than Amsterdam.

Jeremy Parkin – HeliHub.com