Starspeed has made two operational changes for its Penzance Helicopters service to the Isles of Scilly. The company is introducing a third Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter in response to rising demand. The aircraft is expected to enter service in early autumn and will increase the resilience and flexibility of the scheduled link.

Starspeed has also been granted approval by the UK Civil Aviation Authority to conduct base maintenance at Penzance Heliport. This will strengthen operations and allow for growth of the engineering team based there.

Luxaviation Group CEO Patrick Hansen says: “We are proud to invest in the future of the Penzance Helicopters service. These enhancements reflect our commitment to maintaining dependable regional air transport and reflect the full weight of our aviation expertise to ensure long-term success for this essential service. The Isles of Scilly deserve world-class connectivity and we’re here to deliver just that.”

Penzance Helicopters base manager Dave Page adds: “This is a major step forward for Penzance Helicopters and the Islands. This extra support of a third aircraft and base maintenance to support the S76 fleet will help to expand this lifeline service to the Isles of Scilly. The expansion of our two routes to St. Mary’s and Tresco is needed and is now possible. I am extremely proud of all the team who have been involved in making this happen.”