Luxaviation Helicopters, an arm of Luxaviation Group, has acquired global helicopter management, charter and training company Starspeed. The deal represents Luxaviation Helicopters’ first acquisition since its launch in February this year.
The company will take on Starpeed’s fleet of 23 helicopters, creating a total fleet of 42 units and therefore providing clients of both companies with an expanded portfolio of services.
Starspeed, which is based in the UK, will retain its identity, leadership and personnel, with the acquisition enabling Starspeed to benefit from Luxaviation’s expanded back office and the wide breadth of resources.
Charlotte Pedersen, chief executive officer, Luxaviation Helicopters, said, “We are very pleased to be announcing Starspeed as Luxaviation Helicopters’ first acquisition. After careful consideration of the market, it was clear to us that Starspeed is one of the best corporate and VIP helicopter management companies in the world, with an outstanding reputation and highest safety standards available.”
Starspeed’s fleet consists of 19 helicopters under management and four other helicopters available for training and charter. Starspeed’s fleet includes: Sikorsky S-92 and S-76; Airbus Helicopters EC155, AS365, EC145, EC135 and AS350; Leonardo AW169; and Bell 429 helicopters. Every helicopter in the fleet is optimized to meet the specific requirements of the client and meets the highest safety standards.
Simon Mitchell, director and accountable manager at Starspeed, commented, “We are delighted to be joining Luxaviation Helicopters, a global brand that will help take Starspeed to the next level of helicopter management.
“There are clear indicators in the market which suggest that our top-end customers are looking for greater integration in the provision of aviation management services, and this includes the ability to place both fixed-wing and rotary-wing assets under the control of a single management organization. This agreement allows our clients to benefit from just that.
“As operations become increasingly complex, there is a need to provide a greater scope of support services. By joining Luxaviation Helicopters, a worldwide operator, we have found a cost effective and efficient way to expand and strengthen the foundation services we provide, including efficient charter flights, exclusive VIP charter services, instrument rating and conversion training for qualified pilots wishing to extend their skills. Together, we will be able to achieve far more for our clients than we have been able to previously.”
