Multiflight believes the success of its latest marketing promotion is a racing certainty. The West Yorkshire aviation company has arranged for the Dauphin helicopter owned by England and Newcastle United footballer Michael Owen to be available for charter, with key horse racing events among highlights.

The company, based at Leeds Bradford, is offering helicopter transfers in the AS365 to the 2008 Ebor Festival at York Racecourse which takes place 19-22 August and to The Open at Cheltenham Racecourse running from 14-16 November. "These are some of the special events but we can also arrange trips to other race meetings, events or private functions," says Multiflight's helicopter operations manager Linda Nicholls.

Owen bought the twin-engine Dauphin from Multiflight around two years ago but the company maintains and operates it. Nicholls explains: "When he is not playing football, Michael uses the helicopter, flown by Multiflight pilots, to follow his own passion for horses and horse racing."

The footballer owns Manor House Stables, a new purpose-built thoroughbred training establishment in the heart of rural Cheshire, and has his own racehorses. Owen says: "I've always loved horses and bought my first horse in 1998." The horse was named Etienne Lady in memory of Owen's goal in the World Cup. Other well-known horses he owns include Maryolini, Treble Heights and Prairie Tiger.

"The Dauphin was chosen because it offers the very best in charter travel and provides the ultimate in safety, comfort and elegance," says Nicholls. "It is one of the safest and most economical aircraft in its class and, with passenger seating for up to nine, it can take a good-sized group to its chosen destination quickly and efficiently."

Multiflight has increased its fleet to meet rising demand. The company has added an AS355 F2, single pilot IFR, to its fleet and is awaiting the arrival of a second nine-seater AS365 helicopter. The new charter aircraft augment Multiflight's existing fleet, which includes Michael Owen's AS365, an AS350, a B206 JetRanger and an R44. Nicholls says: "Multiflight will be the only operator in the north of England that will be able to offer two luxurious AS365s."

The company's range of services includes aircraft sales and purchase, fixed-wing and rotary helicopter charter, trial flying lessons and commercial pilot courses, and hangarage, service and repair.