UK operator HeliGroup has taken delivery of the first-ever ACH135 Helionix for VIP charter operations from Airbus Corporate Helicopters at the recent Monaco Yacht Show.

The handover event was attended by representatives of the global aviation and yachting industries and supported by the Royal Air Force Red Arrows, who were guests of honour following their air display at the annual yachting event.

Following in the footsteps of the UK Ministry of Defence, which took delivery of the first H135 Helionix in 2017, HeliGroup selected the aircraft in the lightweight, sports car-inspired ACH Line interior fit configured with the ACH135 five-seater business layout. The delivery also marks the introduction of the ACH135’s Helionix capability to the private and business aviation sectors.

Managing director Matthew Munson says: “We are delighted to be the first to introduce the advanced flight and safety benefits of the ACH135 Helionix to the VIP charter market, with the UK again leading the way in aviation. Our customers will benefit from the latest generation build standards and quality, complemented with a luxury interior, making the ACH135 an ideal platform for a range of requirements.”

Head of ACH Frederic Lemos adds: “Our customers can now benefit from the industry-leading technology benefits that Helionix brings on the ACH135, ACH145, ACH175 and the soon-to-come ACH160. HeliGroup's choice will ensure that its customers benefit from quality and exclusivity while benefiting from the versatility and capability of a twin-engine helicopter which, nevertheless, can access the most confined helicopter landing areas in both rural and urban spaces.”