Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Aerospace
  • /
  • Rotorcraft industry survey sees Brexit impact as minimal

Aerospace

Rotorcraft industry survey sees Brexit impact as minimal

A new rotorcraft industry survey has revealed that 53% of respondents believe their business will not be impacted by Brexit.

Furthermore, 73% expect Asia to deliver the biggest increase in sales over the next year.

The uncertain geopolitical climate across Europe has many industries unsettled, however, according to Helitech International’s survey, the rotorcraft industry is slightly less concerned, with over half believing that Brexit will not impact their business at all. Meanwhile, around 30% believe it will have a direct effect, and under 20% remain undecided.

Advertisement
ODU RT

Further to this, approximately two thirds of the industry do not think that Brexit will result in more regulations for operators. This is testament to the global nature of the industry that many feel negotiations between Britain and the EU will have a limited effect on regulations around the world.

Sector Growth
The industry believes that Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) has the biggest growth potential for the next 10 years, according to 28%. The low numbers of HEMS rotorcraft across certain parts of the world, particularly in Asia, is expected to be the catalyst for investment in the near future. Elsewhere, VIP/Corporate, Utility, SAR and Off-shore all show encouragement. This diversity will be reflected at Helitech International this year, with the seminar programme spanning a range of sectors including HEMS, SAR, UAVs, plus Offshore Oil & Gas and Offshore Wind.

Regional Growth
Geographically, it is clear which region of the globe the industry feels will drive growth, with 73% indicating they expect Asia to deliver the biggest increase in sales over the next year.

Overall, around two thirds of respondents believe that the helicopter industry will experience growth over the next five years.

Advertisement
Teledyne

Innovation
Sixty percent feel that in comparison to the aviation industry as a whole, the pace of innovation is lagging in the rotorcraft sector. However, the industry is undecided on the need for a certified civil tiltrotor. When asked ‘Do you think there is market appetite for a certified civil tiltrotor or compound aircraft that would provide significant advances in speed and range?’ 53% responded yes, while 47% said no.

UAVs
Throughout the industry, opinions differ on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and their potential impact on operations with a slight majority believing they present an opportunity as opposed to the 31% who feel threatened by the development. A quarter of respondents feel they offer no difference.

Gillian Jenner, Editorial Director at Helitech International, commented: “Overall, the outlook within the industry remains a positive one, with the HEMS sector and Asian markets predicted to be big earners over the coming years, while the impact of Brexit is expected to be minimal.”

Helitech International takes place at ExCeL London from 3-5 October 2017.

Advertisement
Cranfield University
Flights increase as summer hots up

Aerospace

Flights increase as summer hots up

18 July 2025

UK air traffic in June increased by 2.5% on the same month last year as NATS, the UK’s major provider of air traffic services, safely handled 237,215 flights, up more than 2,600 on May.

ZeroAvia granted patents for hydrogen-electric engine development

Aerospace

ZeroAvia granted patents for hydrogen-electric engine development

17 July 2025

ZeroAvia today announced it has been awarded nine new patents this year so far, with many critical to the company’s roadmap for scaling hydrogen-electric engines for large regional aircraft.

BBGA co-hosts Isle of Man Aviation Conference

Aerospace

BBGA co-hosts Isle of Man Aviation Conference

17 July 2025

For the first time, the British Business General Aviation Association (BBGA) joined Martyn Fiddler as joint hosts of the 13th Isle of Man Aviation Conference, bringing together 120 business aviation delegates at Douglas’ Villa Marina venue.

Flying to become more accessible for disabled people

Aerospace

Flying to become more accessible for disabled people

16 July 2025

An industry and consumer expert group, tasked by the UK Government to advise on how to make flying more accessible for disabled people, has unveiled its suite of recommendations today.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Doncasters expands Groton site with new shell line

Aerospace

Doncasters expands Groton site with new shell line

15 July 2025

Doncasters today announced the successful commissioning of a brand-new, fully automated shell line, at its Groton facility in the US - a major milestone within its 2025 Performance Improvement Plan and a key advancement in the company’s long-term manufacturing strategy.

ZeroAvia and Horizon Aircraft to explore hydrogen eVTOL propulsion

Aerospace

ZeroAvia and Horizon Aircraft to explore hydrogen eVTOL propulsion

15 July 2025

ZeroAvia and Horizon Aircraft today announced plans to work together on developing regional hydrogen-electric VTOL air travel.

Advertisement
Gulfstream RT