SaxonAir says its new EC120 marks the beginning of its venture into vip helicopter charter. "The new aircraft is intended to be the first in a larger fleet of helicopters offering a broader range of services to our existing and successful private jet charter business," says md Chris Mace.

Based out of the UK's Norwich international airport, the new EC120 will initially be operated jointly under the AOC of London Helicopter Centres which has bases at Cranfield, Redhill, Gloucester, Wolverhampton and Enniskillen.

Mace says SaxonAir has experienced continued growth since it was established in 2007 despite recent economic conditions and has built a fleet including a Mustang, Hawker 400XP, a King Air 200 and a King Air 350.

He adds: "The EC120 enables four passengers and a pilot to travel at their ease with unobstructed, excellent visibility. Unlike many helicopters, there is a great deal of luggage space, enough for about five large suitcases."