Eola Group, already present in helicopter services in Monaco and France through its subsidiaries Monacair and Héli Sécurité, has acquired a minority stake in Luxaviation Group’s helicopter company Starspeed, a British company specialising in helicopter management for owners. Starspeed also offers passenger transport services through its Penzance service for the Isles of Scilly, and provides training for qualified helicopter pilots. Eola provides helicopter passenger transport, helicopter management and maintenance services for owners.

A spokesperson for the Eola Group says: “By acquiring a minority stake in Starspeed, we are continuing our strong development by establishing a presence in the United Kingdom. Our industry is currently in a period of transformation, with the prospect of next-generation aircraft on the promising urban mobility market. In parallel, the group is expanding geographically by capitalising on the recognised expertise of Starspeed and its team in the helicopter services field. Our ambition is to further our development in the European market and enhance our owner management offering, making it increasingly comprehensive and competitive.”

Luxaviation Group CEO Patrick Hansen adds: “The increasing demand for helicopters, particularly in the business travel and rapidly emerging tourism sector, is largely driven by travellers seeking a safe and efficient means to minimise time-consuming journeys between destinations. We are proud to announce Eola’s entry into the ownership structure of Starspeed, which will undoubtedly allow both companies to continue delivering the highest degree of quality and customer-focused service in helicopter travel and management. Thanks to Luxaviation Group and Starspeed’s extensive experience, and Eola Group’s skilful expertise in highly secure flights, we aim to bring helicopters to the forefront of business travel in Europe and the world.”

Starspeed was founded in 1978 and has 45 years of experience in helicopter operations as the largest privately owned, corporate VIP helicopter company in Europe. It has operated over 22 types and models of helicopters across more than 65 countries.