Firm wins £141m contract to train German pilots in Dorset

HeliOperations will run the training from its base at Portland

A UK-based company that offers helicopter training has received £141m (€170m) to train pilots from the German Navy.

HeliOperations said it will prepare German naval pilots for operating the NH90 Sea Lion and Sea Tiger helicopters from its base on the Isle of Portland, Dorset.

It was awarded the seven-year contract by the German Ministry of Defence.

The Mayor of Portland Sheila Miles called it a "welcome investment" in the area.

Training at the site is set to commence immediately, according to HeliOperations

She said the area has "a proud history of helicopter operations".

Portland served as an air station for the Royal Navy from 1917 until 1999.

HeliOperations took control of the site in 2017.

Ms Miles congratulated the helicopter training team and said: "This new contract is fabulous news for HeliOps and for the Isle of Portland, bringing welcome investment into the area, after what many residents have seen as a lull in the island’s fortunes.

"Helicopters are very much a part of our lives here, and this investment will ensure the continuation of that part of our culture."

'Reputation for excellence'

Training at the site is set to commence immediately alongside the construction of approved infrastructure at the Portland base, according to HeliOperations.

Steve Gladston, CEO and founder of HeliOperations, said: “This contract reflects the German MOD’s confidence in our ability to provide the highest standards of training, service and support and solidifies HeliOperations’ position as a leading provider of civil and military aviation training services.

"We are committed to supporting the German Navy’s evolving operational needs and are hugely proud of our reputation for excellence.

"The contract is a key milestone in the company’s continuing development”.