British Helicopter Advisory Board
How do I charter a helicopter?
When chartering a helicopter, you must ensure the operator has a valid Air Operators’ Certificate (AOC). This is to ensure the operator complies with the necessary safety standards. Without an AOC, it is illegal to carry fare-paying passengers, and you will not be insured. The holder of a private pilot’s licence (PPL) is not legally permitted to receive any remuneration for carrying passengers.
Click here for a list of BHAB members offering charter services.
How much will it cost?
Typical examples of charter rates are given below. They cover the hire of the helicopter and pilot(s) for flying costs per hour, inclusive of fuel. There are some additional expenses such as landing fees and late opening times for airports and some helipads.
Jet Ranger (4 Passengers) - £500
AS350/Single Squirrel (4/5
Passengers) - £750 AS355/Twin Squirrel (4/5 Passengers) - £950
A109E/B222 (6-10 Passengers) - £1400
EC155/S76 (13 Passengers) - £2300
Details on these (and other similar) helicopter types may be found in the
BHAB Handbook .Code of Practice for Charter Helicopter Operations
Background to the BHAB | All About Helicopters | Training | Guidelines & Codes of Conduct | General Index