Savback Helicopters, the Swedish helicopter sales specialist, is establishing a presence in the UK for the first time with the appointment of Rick Andrew as commercial director. Andrew joins the family-owned business from Sloane Helicopters, the long established Robinson and Leonardo Helicopters UK sales distributor. He was close to the Robinson helicopter community in his former role as sales and business development manager, working across piston and turbine markets.

As well as supporting existing Savback customers, Andrew will work with the team to identify new owners and opportunities. He will also represent the evolving Savback brand at European and UK shows in 2021, including Aero Expo and Private Flyer.

His arrival is the first step in a wider strategic plan by the specialist, independent helicopter sales brokerage, coinciding with its 21st anniversary.

“Rick Andrew is an excellent addition to our expanding team. He brings valuable knowledge and contacts in the local market, and we are really looking forward to working with him,” says Michael Savbäck, company founder.

“We are responding to the changing climate brought about by the Coronavirus pandemic and imposed national lockdowns,” highlights CEO Reja Savbäck, adding that expanding the business to the UK is all part of a larger expansion plan. “COVID-19 has brought about a renewed interest in the helicopter as the ultimate point to point transport.”

“I have some great leads to follow up already, so I'm really looking forward to getting stuck in,” adds Andrew. “Savback has a terrific reputation internationally and is very active across many markets. This was a major factor in joining the business.”

New Zealand-born Andrew moved to the UK eight years ago from Australia where he obtained his fixed wing PPL, aged 20. He moved into helicopter sales after a career in financial services.