Press Release

Few UK operators had sufficient numbers of Twin Squirrels to complete the mission – GB was selected.

Issued by GB Helicopters.

December 18, 2020

November saw ITV's long-running hit TV show 'I'm A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here' return to UK TV screens, offering a small sense of normality back to our lives. But in the opening episode, viewers saw something they don't normally see: five black Airbus AS355 Twin Squirrels, flying in formation, carrying the show's contestants to their first challenge.

The events of this year saw the show move from the Australian jungle to Gwrych Castle in Wales. This opened the door for the spectacular opening sequence to be performed by UK helicopter operator GB Helicopters. As a prominent figure in the film and TV industry and one of a few operators in the country with enough Twin Squirrels, it was a perfect candidate. “It was a fantastic project to work on, and it is rare to have so many aircraft flying together in one production,” says company director and chief pilot Will Banks.

ITV was looking for a high impact opening sequence to this programme and with the incredible back drop of Snowdonia National Park, a fleet of aircraft created a highly impressive opening to this three-week reality show. This was filmed by GB Helicopters' H125 fitted with the GSS UHD stabilised camera system. Flown by Will with camera operator Mike Parker, they directed the formation of AS355s as they captured all the required shots for the opening episode and subsequent general views throughout.

Alongside the company's aerial filming work, GB Helicopters has provided charter and aerial utility services for over 10 years. During that time, it has grown continuously and this month it has added a new aircraft to its AOC, an Airbus H155. Based out of Stansted Airport, the luxury VVIP helicopter will cater for increased demand from London based clients. With its recently refurbished interior, it is expected to be in high demand for major annual sporting and social events.