Aviation firm set for take-off with CBILS funding

A Warwickshire-based aviation company has secured CBIL funding from Barclays.

Heli Air, which is based in Wellesbourne, also operates from four other sites around the UK including Gloucester, Thruxton, High Wycombe and Cumbernauld in Scotland.

The business offers a range of aviation services including pipeline surveillance for gas and fuel infrastructure, engineering, pilot training, aircraft sales, and commercial flights around the UK and Europe.

Heli Airhas recently become the first UK Air Operator Certificate holder to operate helicopters and also have approval to operate Single Engine Turbo Prop aeroplanes – offering charter flights to business people.

The business was taken over in 2008 by Sean Brown – a former senior captain for British Airways. He isjoined in the business by his daughters (both former offshore helicopter pilots in support of the oil and gas sector) and his son (also a qualified pilot) as well as his sister, who is the finance sirector. The business also employs over 100 staff.

Sean Brown said: “Like a number of businesses we have had to look for new income streams during the current situation. It was important to us to ensure our bases and airfield remain open and to secure new work. Our business is on a growth trajectory having spent a number of years securing our aeroplane Air Operators Certificate which means we can offer charter flights to businesses as a competitive price, at the same time as offering the environmental benefits of running a single engine turbine which also circulates fresh air throughout the cabin.”

Alan Bindley, relationship director at Barclays said: “Sean and his family have worked hard on growing the business since its takeover in 2008, reaching a number of key milestones. I am delighted we have been able to support the business with this funding and look forward to watching the business continue to flourish as new markets are opened up.”