Business is growing for Liberty Helicopters, New York City’s premiere tour and charter company, and so is their all-Airbus Helicopters fleet.
“Over the past 28 years, we have become the largest and most experienced sightseeing and executive charter operator in New York City,” said Chris Vellios, COO of Liberty Helicopters. “To keep pace with our tremendous growth, we’ve been working on a fleet expansion plan that began last year.
Liberty has recently taken delivery of two AS350B2 AStars purchased from Airbus Helicopters Inc. The first was into service in December and the second will enter service by March. Part of a planned fleet upgrade, the two new B2s bring Liberty’s fleet to 15 Airbus Helicopters aircraft owned or managed for both tour and charter work. The fleet includes 10 AStars, three AS355 Twin Stars, an AS365 Dauphin and an EC135.
“We chose an all Airbus fleet because of the reputation and the outstanding proven track record of these aircraft,” said Vellios. “The B2s are high performance helicopters capable of a wide range of missions with excellent safety features. Our clients and crew prefer the wide cabin with panoramic views. It’s an amazing helicopter.”
The AS350-series aircraft are single-engine workhorses with the best performance in their category. Produced and certified in the U.S., this cost-effective helicopter accommodates five to six passengers in forward-facing seats. The high performance, enhanced maneuverability and reduced pilot workload make the AS350 the best-selling aircraft in its class. It is the favorite helicopter for law enforcement agencies, air medical transport missions and many tour and charter operators.
“We are excited to continue to service the needs of Liberty Helicopters and assist them in maintaining their status as the premiere tour and charter company on the New York City airspace,” said Treg Manning, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Airbus Helicopters Inc.
Airbus Helicopters is installing a full assembly line in its Columbus, Miss. Production facility for the AS350 series helicopters, with the first aircraft to be rolled out in the fourth quarter of 2014.
