New Zealand-based helicopter sales company Pacific AirHub has solidified its standing in Africa by partnering with local associate Cornéll Grové. The move comes after the company established its presence throughout Australia and New Zealand and set its sights on the African continent.

The African continent is currently in a state of accelerated growth, with experts expecting the market to grow significantly in the next five years. After two years of stagnation and lower than usual sales following COVID-19's impact, Africa is poised to make a significant turn around. The Middle East and Africa helicopter market is expected to exhibit a growth rate of over two per cent over the next five years.

The Pacific AirHub team has a combined experience of 100 years and sold over 20 helicopters in its first year of operation, which just happened to be during the sweep of the pandemic when sales were at an all time low. By partnering with Grové, the company will be bringing on an experienced and well-versed helicopter expert in southern Africa.

The brand is ready to tackle the traditionally fixed wing-dominated region, and bring more helicopters in to exploit their flexibility for shorter trips and taking off and landing without a runway.

Grové himself brings over 14 years of experience to the table and has worked with and consulted for some of the biggest aviation brands on the continent. He has held several high-ranking aviation positions, from regional sales manager of south and east Africa for Airbus Helicopters to owning his own company, representing some of the finest aviation brands globally.

Grové was part of the team launching Airbus H125 helicopters for the first time in two civilian markets and sported salesman of the year for Airbus Helicopters southern Africa for two years running. He has extensive experience throughout Africa, being the Airbus Foundation representative for South Africa and foundation liaison for the entire African continent. His love for flying spans over three decades.

Pacific AirHub specialises in purchasing and selling helicopters and helicopter parts. It offers a full hangar-to-hangar service worldwide and takes care of the complete sales process, from sourcing to inspection, packing and shipping. It is an expert in Airbus, Bell and MD Helicopters.