Rotary charterer Helilux has started to operate what it says is the first Eurocopter AS355N Twin Squirrel helicopter in Wales.

Managing partner Jeremy Stone said heavy charter demand was being fuelled by a number of factors, including the fast-growing financial centre in Cardiff.

Stone said: “G-STON is a vip charter aircraft with full air-conditioning and less than 800 hours since new.”

The Twin Squirrel, which can carry five passengers, is owned by Helilux and maintained, operated and flown by Veritair, part of British International, at Cardiff Heliport.

“Around 70 per cent of demand is charter work. The Twin Squirrel really came into its own for a return Cardiff-Penzance trip,” he said.

“It can be a 10 hour road trip going round the Severn Estuary, while a helicopter takes the straight line and cuts it to a couple of hours or so.”

Stone estimated that Helilux had experienced a growth in charter demand of around 15 per cent in the past year. There was also some demand for pleasure and sightseeing trips.

Veritair is a specialised helicopter company which operates and maintains aircraft for clients including the BBC, the Ministry of Defence, the police, and the Welsh Assembly Government.

Stone said G-STON was virtually new and ideally suited for vip charter, sightseeing or commercial work. He added: “Flying at 150mph, the twin jet engines allow you to cruise safely and comfortably, carrying five passengers and their luggage. 

“The aircraft can reach anywhere in the UK or near Europe. Twin engines and floats make cross-water travel safe and convenient.”

Demand at Cardiff Heliport has focused on leisure as well as business. “It has been hired for a golf charter and personal leisure trips are likely to form an important part of demand.

He added: “All the signs are that the nascent charter market in Wales will grow significantly.”