Soft landings

Helicopter industry robust in economic slowdown

After a strong run for a number of years, the Australian helicopter industry has been experiencing a slowing down, but signs are that things are starting to return to normal levels of activity.

Prior to 2008, the Australian helicopter industry had been undergoing an unprecedented boom, driven by strong demand for new aircraft, utility services and a large increase in private operators of helicopters. This included many people purchasing helicopters for the first time. “Some of these customers have previously owned medium to large boats for recreation but find that the expenses to operate and maintain make these vessels almost prohibitive to own considering the amount of time used,” said Robinson dealer Helibiz’s sales manager Troy Holloway.