AgustaWestland is expecting a 20 per cent rise in business in 2006, with the UK and Italy providing strong growth. The manufacturer sold 145 helicopters in 2005. Emilio Dalmasso, vice-president civil sales, said: "We are expanding sales and marketing in the US, South America and Europe but Eastern Europe is proving exciting."

AgustaWestland has two types of customers - corporate and private individuals. Since entering the rotary-wing market in 1952, Agusta has delivered more than 5,000 helicopters in over 80 countries.