The civilian helicopter fleet in Ireland has seen one of the most significant cuts through the global recession with an estimated 75% of the private and corporately owned fleet being sold to new owners in other countries.  In reality, the only continuing operations are those with helicopters on long contracts – SAR, Offshore and lighthouse support – and the most resilient of charter operators and corporate owners.

One such corporate owner continues to fly a Bell 430, but will soon replace it with a new AgustaWestland AW139.  Soon to be registered EI-LIM, reflecting the owner’s place of birth and business interests in County Limerick, the helicopter is currently test flying from the factory at Vergiate in Italy.  We expect the aircraft to be delivered to the customer in the next few weeks.

Photo is © 2014 Tiziano Capenti and used here with express permission

Jeremy Parkin – HeliHub.com