Our Latest News
NICK HARDY - Head of Leonardo Sales
04th May 2026
Hai Air is very pleased to announce our Managing Director, Nick Hardy, has been appointed Head of Leonardo Sales at Sloane Helicopters, a move that comes as no surprise to anyone who’s worked with him.
Nick’s career has taken him around the globe, from his time in the Royal Air Force to building relationships at every level within the aviation industry. What sets him apart is simple - straight talking, in depth knowledge and a genuine focus on helping people.
Proud to have him leading us, and excited to see the impact he’ll undoubtedly make in this new role.
— The Hai-Air Team
Christmas Eve Challenger 3500 Sold!
24th December 2025
As the holiday season approaches and the year draws to a close, Hai Air is celebrating a special milestone: the sale of another jet. And while every aircraft sale is exciting, this one carries a little extra meaning.
This time of year naturally invites reflection, and for Hai Air, it’s a moment to look back on how far the team has come. What started as a small vision has grown into a trusted aviation partner known for its personalised approach and unwavering dedication. None of that would have been possible without the hard work, long hours, and commitment of the Hai Air team.
A special thanks to our partners and all involved in the Sale - Shiloh Saatori @pyxisaviationgroup , Will Flanagan @Whiskey Fox Limited and @Catreus Aviation.
It’s more than a business win—it’s a reminder of the passion and teamwork that fuel Hai Air every day.
“This sale is a wonderful way to head into the holidays,” said Nick Hardy, Managing Partner of Hai Air. “The team has worked incredibly hard this year, and we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished together. Our clients continue to put their trust in us, and that’s the greatest gift we could ask for.”
With Christmas fast approaching and the New Year on the horizon, Hai Air is filled with gratitude—for its clients, partners, and the dedicated people who make each milestone possible. The company looks ahead to 2026 with excitement, ambition, and the same personal touch that has shaped its journey from day one.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call + 44 (0) 208 012 8480
Hai Air Soars Into the New Year with the sale of another AS350B3!
23rd December 2025
As the holiday season fast approaches, the team at Hai Air is celebrating a special delivery - the sale of a 2005 Airbus AS350B3 heli - three sales in one week! This versatile aircraft is the perfect way to wrap up the year on a high note.
"We're thrilled to send this helicopter off to its new home, just in time for the new year." - Nick Hardy, Managing Partner at Hai Air.
For Hai Air, this sale represents more than just a business transaction. It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team, who have worked tirelessly to build the company's reputation as a trusted partner in the aviation industry.
With a fresh new brand identity and website on the horizon, Hai Air is poised for an even bigger and better 2026. But for now, the focus is on celebrating this latest achievement and toasting to many more successful years to come.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call + 44 (0) 208 012 8480
A Very Merry AS350B3
22nd December 2025
Hai-Air is pleased to announce the successful sale of a 2000 Airbus AS350B3, just in time to round off the year on a high.
This B3 brings serious performance with a little seasonal sparkle. Reliable, capable, and still looking sharp for its age, it’s the kind of helicopter that shows up, gets the job done, and stays for the mince pies.
Closing out the festive season with a handshake and a happy new owner, this well-loved B3 is heading off to its next chapter.
A big thanks, to everyone involved & Merry Christmas!!
It’s always a good feeling to send an aircraft off just before the holidays, and this AS350B3 makes for a particularly satisfying year-end delivery.
From all of us at Hai-Air, here’s to smooth flights, strong lift, and a very merry Christmas. 🎁🚁
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call + 44 (0) 208 012 8480
Doubling down from Xmas! Two sales in one week.
22nd December 2025
🚁 Two in a Week. Ending 2025 Strong.
Hai-Air has completed the sale of a 2001 Airbus AS355N, marking our second aircraft sale in just one week!
The aircraft is now heading off to its new owner, ready for its next chapter and many hours of flying ahead.
As we move into the New Year with momentum — a new brand coming soon and our refreshed website already live — this feels like the perfect way to close out the year.
Same focus. New look. Watch this space.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call + 44 (0) 208 012 8480
Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025
13th July 2025
We just wrapped up an epic weekend at the Goodwood Festival of Speed! A special year, the 75th F1 Anniversary, connecting with friends, clients and fellow industry pals over a glass of bubbly or two.
The vibe was electric, with iconic cars and loads of excitement all around. Big shoutout to everyone who came, you guys made it! It was awesome making connections and sharing some great moments. Here’s to next year!
Cheers,
The Hai Air Team
Hai-Air connects at EBACE 2025!
21st May 2025
Hai-Air attended the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) 2025 in Geneva. Despite the shows smaller footprint and an absence of Aircraft Manufacturers (OEM’s), the event continues to provide excellent opportunity’s for our team to meet clients and business colleagues & strengthen relationships within the industry.
It was a pleasure to connect with so many industry professionals and share insights. Events like EBACE remind us of the power of collaboration in shaping the future of aviation.
As we return, energized from this vibrant gathering, Hai-Air looks forward to nurturing these connections and exploring new opportunities. Stay tuned for more updates at www.Hai-air.com.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs.
hello@hai-air.com
+ 44 (0) 208 012 8480
Hai Air delivers “Brand New” H130T2 – A VIP Arrival in Style
10th April 2025
Hai Air is excited to announce the final acceptance and delivery of a “brand new” Corporate/VIP H130T2.
In just under nine months, this customer-led configuration went from chats over coffee to a fully configured flying machine, delivered on time, on budget, and without hiccup, miracles sometimes do happen.
To top it off, the ferry flight across the Alps was pure joy—blue skies, early Spring sunshine….smooth, quiet, deceptively spacious, and honestly, a bit of a show-off. A real scenic “magic carpet” experience for all on board, even the Alps looked impressed!
Huge thanks to our client for trusting us with the build & delivery of their pride & joy. This H130T2 is the first of many, we’re just getting warmed up….stay tuned.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call + 44 (0) 208 012 8480
6th SP delivered in the past 3 years!
20th December 2024
Hai Air is extremely pleased to announce the sale of a stunning 2023 Corporate AW109SP (Grand New), our 6th SP delivered in the past 3 years.
Hai Air has achieved a significant milestone of 31 aircraft sales to date, total value in access of one hundred and fifty million US dollars since our commencement of trading and first delivery in 2018. This milestone, despite the global turmoil and uncertainty over the past few years, highlights the continuing demand for quality aircraft with clear provenance, which in turn drives our commitment to a transparent service, delivering dynamic aviation solutions to all our clientele without exception.
Our thanks to Sloan for their assistance, professionalism and support in closing. This latest machine now en-route to its delighted owner.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 2080128480
Hai Air accepts new ACH Helicopter from Airbus!
11th December 2024
Hai-Air is pleased to announce the formal acceptance of a new ACH130T2 from Airbus on behalf of our client. A smooth test flight confirmed the aircraft’s excellent condition, all minor discrepancies resolved efficiently by Airbus engineers same day.
Hai-Air extends its gratitude to both Airbus and Europavia for their dedication, professionalism and hospitality in ensuring the aircraft’s handover was conducted seamlessly.
The aircraft has subsequently been flown to Switzerland, where final completion will commence. This includes equipment installation, interior customisation, and final paintwork at Europavia.
Hai-Air.com extends gratitude to all involved for their support and wishes everyone a joyful holiday season!
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call + 44 (0) 208 012 8480
EUROPEAN ROTORS AMSTERDAM 2024
05th November 2024
Hai Air proudly attended European Rotors 2024 at the RAI Exhibition, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
With inspiring discussions and an energised atmosphere, the event truly felt like the aviation highlight of the year!
“This was more than a conference; it was a chance to grow relationships and share our vision for the future” - Nick Hardy, Managing Partner, Hai-Air.
Hai-Air looks forward to turning these connections into new journeys for 2024 and beyond.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call + 44 (0) 208 012 8480
BRAND NEW 'GRAND NEW'
06th September 2024
Hai Air is delighted to offer an excellent opportunity to secure a “Brand New” Grand New, available for immediate delivery. She’s fully loaded, 67hrs TT. Full 5yr OEM manufacturers warranty. New deliveries now 2026, this beautiful machine represents the pinnacle of VIP/Corporate helicopter travel available today.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call + 44 (0) 208 012 8480
Today Hai-Air announces another Airbus No1 best seller, the AS350B3 sold!
30th July 2024
HAI-Air.com announces the successful sale of another AS350B3 helicopter, this 24 year old machine a testament to the enduring legacy and exceptional performance of this iconic aircraft.
The AS350B3, renowned for its versatility, power and reliability has been a cornerstone in the world of rotary-wing aviation, its storied history and unmatched capabilities have made it the favourite ‘workhorse’ among operators across the globe, from emergency medical services, law enforcement to tourism and utility work.
This example has been with the same owner for some 20+ years, not surprisingly, it remains today Airbus No 1 best seller, raw testimony to the above.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs.
Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call + 44 (0) 208 012 8480
Farnborough International Airshow 2024!
26th July 2024
Hai Air attended the Farnborough Airshow this week, this one of the most significant global exhibition/events for the aerospace and defense industries, attracting exhibitors and visitors from around the world. HAI-Air.com is extremely proud to be part of this event where companies present their innovative products and services designed to enhance efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability in the aviation sector.
"We are excited to participate in the show, a premier platform for showcasing innovative solutions and an opportunity to meet with clients, colleagues and industry leaders and enthusiasts, " said Nick Hardy at HAI-Air.com. Hai Air would also like to thank Airbus for their continued support and hospitality throughout.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 208012 8440
AW109SP RECORD BREAKING SALES!
20th June 2024
Hai-air is pleased to announce the sale of its second AW109SP in the past two weeks, both recently delivered to delighted UK-based clients.
Big thank you to Castle Air, GB Helicopters, and Helimech for making this latest transaction swift and seamless with the utmost professionalism, completing the sale and handover in record time.
Need assistance to buy or sell your aircraft? From Corporate / Private Jets to VIP Helicopters, we have you covered. Give us a call so we can discuss your needs. Please contact hello@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 208012 8440
Jersey & Guernsey Business Aviation Exhibition
04th June 2024
A big thank you to Investec and Dassault Aviation for their hospitality over the past couple of days. A great opportunity to meet with clients and showcase some of the latest hardware including Falcon 6X & Global 7500 in a very relaxed and beautiful environment.
What an event! From fine food and wine to viewing the latest in Luxury Private Aircraft. Once again a special thx to Investec, Gama, ASG and sponsors.
EBACE 2024
30th May 2024
Hai Air attended the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE2024), May 28th to May 30th in Geneva, Switzerland.
“As always, lovely to catch up with clients, colleagues & manufacturers and meet so many new faces. Enjoyed great company & fantastic hospitality…..thank you European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) for hosting a great exhibition. Let’s hope the missing “Big guns” return next year….till 2025!” Nick Hardy, Hai-Air.
EBACE is an invaluable opportunity to engage with fellow professionals and explore the latest advancements in our industry, supporting the future of business aviation.
Hai Air proudly delivers “One of the Last” manufactured VIP EC155B1 /H155 to a New European Owner earlier today
17th October 2023
Hai Air, a leading aviation company specialising in VIP Executive Jet & Helicopter sales, is delighted to announce the successful closing & delivery of a late model VIP H155 helicopter to its new owner earlier today.
The VIP H155 renowned for its spacious, luxurious and comfortable interiors, makes it an ideal choice for discerning travellers seeking the ultimate flying experience. With modern technology, top-of-the-line amenities, speed and agility, this helicopter promises its passengers unparalleled convenience, performance, safety and pleasure.
"We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to deliver this “Beast of a machine” to its new owner," states Nick Hardy, CEO of Hai Air. " Given its new European base, Hai Air looks forward to welcoming it back to our U.K. shores on a regular basis.
Hai Air is a premier aviation company specialising in VIP Executive Jet and Helicopter sales. With a focus on luxury, safety, and efficiency, Hai Air offers bespoke aircraft solutions for its discerning clientele. The company's commitment to excellence has made it a trusted name in the aviation industry.
For more information please visit Hai-air.com or contact Nick Hardy at nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
Hai Air Delivers Dassault Falcon 7X to the USA!
05th October 2023
Hai Air, is proud to announce the successful closing and delivery of a Dassault Falcon 7X to a thrilled and delighted USA client.
This 2013 Falcon 7X stood out as the lowest flight hour machine available at the time of sale for its age, making it an exceptional find. This model exemplifies the pinnacle of business jet innovation, combining fighter jet manoeuvrability with a whisper-quiet executive cabin, providing passengers with unparalleled comfort and serenity.
A huge thankyou to Mace Aero for their professionalism, attention to detail and dedication, ensuring a quality and seamless transaction.
Hai Air takes pride in its global network of buyers and sellers, ensuring seamless, efficient transactions and long-lasting relationships with our clientele. As we continue to flourish in the executive jet sales department, our focus remains on innovation, customer satisfaction, and maintaining the highest industry standards.
With this milestone delivery of the Falcon 7X, Hai Air continues to raise the bar and redefine luxury travel.
For more information please visit Hai-air.com or contact Nick Hardy at nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
MONACO YACHT SHOW 2023
29th September 2023
Monaco Yacht Show - You were fantastic.
Hai Air attended the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS 23) once again, meeting clients, catching up with friends and enjoying some fine food and wine. Big thanks to Airbus Corporate Helicopters Edmiston Yachts, Boutsen Aviation, Gulfstream Aerospace, Jetcraft, David J Lewis and Matthew Harrington. Till next year!!!
For further information or general enquiries, please contact Nick Hardy at nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
Hai-Air adds to its VIP Fleet with the Addition of this AW109SP (Grand New) !!!
26th August 2023
Introducing this stunning AW109SP addition to our impressive lineup of aircraft for sale!
Elevate your aviation game with top-notch luxury and performance. This AW109SP continues to exceed performance standards with its advanced avionics, opulent interior, and extended range.
This AW109SP Grand New Helicopter is now available for viewings and inquiries through the Hai-Air.com website, offering prospective buyers the chance to explore the epitome of aviation luxury.
For more information please visit Hai-air.com or contact Nick Hardy at nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
25th Airframe SOLD!!!
21st April 2023
We’ve got very exciting news… An additional A109S marks Hai Air’s 25th Aircraft sold!
Based in the North of England, this beauty will make its way to sunnier climes soon.
Heli values for ‘in demand’ platforms continue to remain robust, showing no signs of weakening in the current climate.
A huge thank you to Volare Aviation for their patience and support working closely with HAI Air in ensuring the sale was completed on schedule.
ANOTHER AW109SP SOLD!
05th April 2023
Hai-Air are once again thrilled to announce the sale of a beautiful New 2023 AW109SP (delivery hours only), shortly en-route to a very satisfied overseas client.
Managing partner Nick Hardy met with Paul Garner & Graham Charman earlier this week, to complete the sale and handover.
A huge thankyou to Sloane Helicopters, Saxon Air & Lucas Aero Technics for making this transaction both swift and seamless with the utmost professionalism and care from start to finish.
For further information or general enquiries, please contact nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
EUROPEAN ROTORS COLOGNE 2022
09th November 2022
Hai Air - Good to be back at the European Rotors Cologne, Germany earlier in the week. Great to see emerging technologies, key manufacturers and clients together under one roof. The show appears to have taken over from Helitech in the U.K. as the premier European Rotor Show and moving to Madrid next year…we are sure to be there!
Further information or general enquiries, please contact Nick Hardy at nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
MONACO YACHT SHOW 2022
28th September 2022
Hai Air is very pleased to be travelling again and in particular visiting the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS 22) back in late September, for the first time since 2019. Great to see so many familiar faces again. Huge thank you to Airbus Corporate Helicopters (ACH), Boutsen Aviation and Edmiston Yachts for their hospitality and an excellent Champagne reception at the Royal Monaco Yacht Club with a beautifully configured and capable ACH145D3 in attendance.
Further information or general enquiries, please contact Nick Hardy at nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
AS350B3e First delivery to Northern Ireland
24th September 2022
AS350B3e First delivery to Northern Ireland.
Hai Air delivers its first AS350B3e to Northern Ireland. A beautifully configured VIP B3e in Midnight Black metallic with Raven Alcantara/Leather, an EFIS 40 ‘glass cockpit’ and 3 Axis Autopilot. Business continues to grow steadily with prices continuing to hold despite the forecast global downturn and the first signs of recession.
Further information or general enquiries, please contact Nick Hardy at nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
AS350B3 TRENDING!
09th September 2022
Hai Air is pleased to announce our second AS350/H125 sold this year, a 2014 H125B3e. This beautiful full VIP configured ship, closed recently and is currently being shipped to a very happy East Coast, USA customer. This originally VIP configured aircraft was delivered from Airbus, Kidlington, UK with 3 Axis SFIM Autopilot and Floats. Hai Air don't just sell aircraft, we help choose a solution which is right for you.
For further information or general enquiries, please contact nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
HAI SCORE 21!
24th August 2022
Hai Air are pleased to announce our fastest sale this year, of a beautiful Airbus EC120B 1999, with just over 2,300hrs. With just over a month from intro to market to sale completion, it proves this underrated gem of an aircraft remains in strong demand. The Helicopter will remain in UK and operated on a busy S.England based AOC.
With Hai-Air scoring their 21st Sale, they continue to breach expectations in a softening market, with optimism, high quality service and support for their clients.
For further information or general enquiries, please contact nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
Hai Air's First BELL 505X SOLD!
18th July 2022
We are delighted to deliver Hai Air’s first Bell 505X with a 3 Axis Autopilot and full year of manufacturers warranty, to a very happy UK based customer last month. This despite softening demand and a gradual reduction of aircraft values witnessed in the current market.
For further information or general enquiries, please contact nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
Hai Air makes 19th delivery on the run up to Christmas!
16th November 2021
Hai Air is pleased to announce the delivery of a second Leonardo Airframe (2008 A109E) to its Northeast Asian client, based on established relationships built from previous sales, trust, professional advice & feedback amidst a global pandemic.
Hai Air Managing Partner, Nick Hardy met with Graham Charman and Martin J Suddards Tuesday morning to complete the handover of the A109 E (3 Ton Elite) once again preparing it for it’s onward journey to the new owner in Northeast Asia. A huge thank you to Lucas Aero Technics and MJS Shipping who together made the delicate transition seamless, with attention to detail, professional care and enthusiasm.
For further information or general enquiries, please contact nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
Hai Air round off Summer with their 18th Sale in 3 years.
18th August 2021
HAI Air deliver their 18th airframe in 3 years, maintaining the trust, sensitivity and the unrivalled performance & professionalism their clients demand.
A stunning 2005 AS350B3+ SOLD…. another extremely happy UK customer, taking ownership of a beautiful one owner from new B3+ Squirrel.
Please do not hesitate to contact Hai Air for assistance, our team delighted to assist in fulfilling your personal aviation aspirations.
Nick Hardy - Managing Partner, Hai Air
For further information or general enquiries, please contact nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
Hai Air delivers another 109SP overseas during covid-19
23rd June 2021
Hai Air proudly announce the sale of a 2016 AW109SP, its second A109SP in 6 months amongst an ongoing global pandemic which has severely impacted the aviation trading market since early last year. Despite the stagnation of aviation trade in general, the purchase process, securing, closing and export was completed without any physical travel or ‘face to face’ interaction with the client. The initial interest and purchase being based on a 1min 27 second high definition video, professional advice, feedback and established trust between the parties involved.
Hai Air Sales Managing Partner, Nick Hardy met with Graham Charman and Martin J Suddards Wednesday morning to complete the handover of the AW109SP, preparing for it’s onward journey to the new owner in East Asia. A huge thank you to Lucas Aero Technics and MJS Shipping who together made the delicate transition seamless, with attention to detail, professional care and enthusiasm.
For further information or general enquiries, please contact nickh@hai-air.com or call +44 (0) 7472795945
Hai Air Score 16
30th November 2020
Hai Air have just completed their 16th aircraft sale, despite the ongoing uncertainty of the global COVID-19 pandemic and the upcoming Brexit transition.
The very discreet transaction culminated in the AW109SP departing under blue skies and recently arriving safely at its new home. The owners are thrilled with their new aircraft.
For further information or general enquiries, please contact hello@hai-air.com 0208 012 8480.
Hai Air Makes It Fifteen!
03rd September 2020
Despite the challenging times that the world continues to face, Hai Air have completed their fifteenth transaction in only their third year of trading.
The sale completed on the South Coast of England earlier today under a very fitting blue sky.
Sincere congratulations to the new owner - a genuine pleasure to meet, advise and do business with; fly safe and enjoy, sir!
For further information or general enquiries, please contact hello@hai-air.com or call 0208 012 8480
Hai Air sells another AW109
29th July 2020
Hai Air are thrilled to announce that despite the challenging and unprecedented times that the world faces in light of the COVID19 pandemic, they have completed the sale of another AW109.
The 2015 SP departed IFR under gloomy skies, arriving in a very sunny and warm Italy later that day, after three fuel stops enroute.
Despite the company only just reaching its third year of trading, this latest transaction marks the fourteenth aircraft sale for Hai Air.
For further information or general enquiries, please contact hello@hai-air.com or call 0208 012 8480.
A new Hai Air role for MATT HARRINGTON
31st January 2020
The latest recruit to the busy Hai Air sales team is Matt Harrington. He is well known to helicopter charter companies as Operations Manager for Helipad, sister company to Hai Air.
As many in this industry know, road to ‘glamorous’ careers seldom is anything but! Matt recalls his second Helipad event: “One moment I was escorting VIPs from their helicopters in a shirt and tie, and the next, changing wheel bearings on vehicles in the mud. Exciting, maybe; glamorous? Definitely not!”. But the buzz and speed of flying had him hooked!
Matt has always been excited by aircraft and fast cars. He trained in graphic design, but a fellow student persuaded him to work at Helipad’s events. It was not long before he had signed up for what is now a 15-year career as helipad grew from a couple of porta cabins, to a full mobile operations centre with control tower and an air traffic control team.
“Matt knows that aircraft sales needs patience,” said Nick Hardy, Head of Hai Air Sales. “It takes time to help customers choose what is right for them and knowledge, ability and tenacity to make the right deal. But Matt’s enthusiasm is a distinct bonus, and he is already eyeing his second sale for Hai Air so we are confident that he is going to do well!”
Working the Grid
31st January 2020
Dave Usher is the Senior Sales Manager for Hai Air Limited executive jet and helicopter sales. He is also an experienced pilot. GA Buyer caught up with him recently to ask about how he got to where he is now.
“A lot of graft’” he said, “and a lot of flying!”. 5,000 hours, in fact, gained over the past 12 years
In recent years he has flown both HEMS and Air Ambulance missions, transporting patients in need of critical care in emergency situations. “I flew all variants of the AW109 in this role – the E, S and SP. It’s such a versatile aircraft used widely in the corporate VIP sector, but its speed and also large boot make it a fantastic HEMS/Air Ambulance aircraft”
Before that, he flew out of Aberdeen to the North Sea Oil Rigs on the UK continental shelf. “I flew the Sikorsky S92, mainly on scheduled crew change flights, but also on medevac and maintenance test flights. In offshore configuration, the S92 carries 19 passengers and is a fantastic platform for the often harsh and challenging environment that the North Sea presents”.
The earlier part of Dave’s flying life, however, was spent working the gas pipe lines for the National Grid.
Working the grid
For the pilot, the work is exacting: they cover around 3,000 km a week and 500 – 600 ft above ground. Each sector covers a quarter of the UK and must be inspected every 28 days.
The objective is to identify signs of unlawful digging or building in the area of the gas pipe lines. Using a detailed digital map, the National Grid Observer tracks each and every gas pipe line. If there is any sign of an errant
JCB, digging or building works the helicopter lands so action can be taken to protect the site.
Generally, the work demanded full concentration but, Dave said, there was plenty of scope for laughs. “The observers tended to be super-cool, calm and collected’” Dave said. He remembered one who was the spitting image of Sean Connery: “So much so, that he’d regularly be asked to be attend UK Bond premieres as a look -alike!”
At the time, the National Grid Gas network was supported by a fleet of four Bell 206 Jet Rangers. “They’re such an iconic aircraft; statistically the safest airframe globally and so prolifically operated”.
Hai Air
Dave now puts his skills and experience to use at Hai Air. “It has been a big departure from being a jobbing pilot, but an absolute pleasure working with jet and helicopter owners from around the world. Being a pilot means I can talk to clients offering solutions and platforms based on real experience, rather than just what the book says”.
“Hai Air probably has the highest number of experienced commercial pilots in their team, both fixed and rotary wing. For our clients, it makes a real difference.”
Dave Usher can be contacted on 07803 204623 or email daveu@hai-air.com.
Helipad introduces helicopter students and PPLs to landing at major events
31st January 2020
Veteran helicopter pilots will often recall their first landing at a major UK event. The roar of the engines, and the tight turnaround times as upward of a hundred helicopters and their passengers vie to land at heliports within a short time frame.
For new pilots and PPLs, however, landing at a major event for the first time can be daunting.
“It wasn’t that long ago that I was a flight instructor”, said Nick Cox, partner and manager of Helipad, part of the Hai Air Group. “I know that the job presents many challenges; not least, to provide a wide range of experience for student pilots and qualified PPLs. After all, there are only so many fly-outs to Le Touquet you can do – and students are hungry to learn more about putting their skills to the test.”
Helipad is launching a new initiative, aimed at Flying Instructors and their students. They are offering Flying Instructors and their students half-price on all event landing fees throughout 2020. Any Student, PPL(H) or CPL(H) in training will qualify for the discount.
The students will be invited to fly in on most of Helipad’s smaller race days and events such as Henley Regatta, The Game Fair and the many music events. These sites do not experience the levels of traffic found at the likes of Cheltenham Festival or Epsom so it not only provides a different flying experience, but also makes a fantastic day out.
Helipad will provide a comprehensive briefing pack for every student, to include all the information pilots need to know and will then have the opportunity to put this into practice.
Most of the staff at Helipad are Pilots and understand that this will be, for most new pilots, an unfamiliar environment, so new pilots will also be given the extra bit of space and time they may need to get in safely.
The Helipad team also have their eye firmly on safety and are well-known for their efficiently run, CAA-approved heliport sites. All their events are covered by fire and rescue and they can provide passenger transport if needed.
“We believe that it is up to us as an industry to work together and promote the use of helicopters in the UK”, said Nick. “I hope that this offer will go some way to support this”.
If you need more information, please contact Brenna Price-Walker brenna@helipad.co.uk , or Nick Cox, nick@helipad.co.uk.
Helipad sponsors the McCoy Awards at Cheltenham Racecourse
27th September 2019
Helipad and its parent company, Hai Air, has supported The Jockey Club since the 1970s, during which the team have come to know the dedicated racehorse owners and other, often overlooked, individuals who contribute so much to this great sport.
The McCoy Awards celebrate outstanding performances at The Jockey Club’s racecourses during the 2018/19 season.
This year, the Hai team were proud to sponsor two awards announced at the 2019 McCoy Awards event held at the Cheltenham Racecourse on 27 September.
The trophies were for the leading conditional jockey presented to Bryony Frost, and leading amateur jockey, Sam Waley-Cohen. Other winners can be found
here: https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/cheltenham/owners-and-trainers/the- mccoy-awards/#2019_results.
Nick Hardy, partner and Sales Director for Hai Air, presented the trophies. “It was an absolute pleasure to present the two prestigious trophies for to Bryony and Sam. They are hugely talented individuals, and we look forward to following their developing careers as they continue on their skyward trajectory.
Helipad provides CAA-approved temporary airport facilities to helicopters landing at the Cheltenham Racecourse and other major events.
Cheltenham Racecourse signs up Helipad
29th April 2019
The Jockey Club have appointed Helipad, part of the Hai Air group, to provide helicopter landing services for major events at Cheltenham Racecourse.
“Helipad has supported The Jockey Club since the 1970s”, explained Nick Cox, partner and Business Development Director for the Hai Air group. “Initially, services were professional, but rudimentary. But the demand for fast and efficient transport has grown, especially in the racing community – and so have our services.”
Today, Helipad provides fully serviced and heated terminal for passengers and a rest stop for pilots who have often travelled long distances with their passengers.
“Crucially, we run a well-managed airport. We have a safety record which many world envy”, added Nick. “We have experienced pilots on our team and understand the importance of maintaining the most exacting standards in the air and on the ground.”
Helipad is currently the only temporary heliport operator providing licensed heliports to CAA standards.
The long-term contract with the Jockey Club provides an opportunity for the Helipad team to stretch their capabilities still further. Helipad has added to their fleet of fire trucks and upgraded the online booking system. More is planned.
Helipad also provides similar services to racecourses at York, Newmarket, Epsom Downs and Chester.
HAI AIR appoints Dave Usher
08th March 2019
HAI AIR has appointed Dave Usher in a new role as Senior Sales Manager. The appointment, less than 2 years after its launch in July 2017, is testimony to the company’s growing dominance in the field of jet and helicopter sales in the UK and abroad.
“There is little sign of the sales letting up,” said Nick Hardy, Managing Partner and Head of Hai Air Sales. “Dave’s appointment will allow us to expand on our current levels of engagement and strengthen our commitment to our customers”.
Hai Air strategy puts much store on employing seasoned pilots.
Dave’s appointment in no exception: he has over 5,000 hours flying helicopters for the UK National Grid, the North Sea and the HEMS/Air ambulance sectors, to name a few. “I have had a varied career as a pilot, flying many different types of aircraft in sometimes very challenging arenas,” explained Dave. “The insight gained supports clients when purchasing aircraft intended to carry their colleagues or families”.
Dave will focus on helicopter and jet sales across the UK, starting with a ‘Grand Tour’ to meet clients and other industry professionals in early summer.
HAI AIR introduces first EC135T2i to Kenya
07th March 2019
Hai Air are pleased to announce the completion and delivery of a beautiful EC135T2i with stunning new paint design and refurbished interior to a Kenyan ViP Client.
This has been a joint effort, supported by Edmiston Aviation, Farnborough Aircraft Interiors, Chimera/Recovair Export and A2BAero Engineering Services. The modern EC135T2i Aircraft,is the first of its kind to be successfully exported to Mombasa Kenya, and first of its type on the KCAA Register.
The aircraft handover to the new owner is scheduled to take place in Nairobi later in March after completing type certification and flight training.