Frequently asked Questions

Are you operating an air taxi or air charter service or any form of scheduling of flights?

Although Vanguard Helicopters Ltd do enjoy an AOC link and can offer full charter services, this is a shared ownership scheme, whereby you are the part owner and operator, and is not to be confused with a charter service. These aircraft are fractionally owned by you, and they are yours to fly whenever you wish, availability and weather permitting, and maintenance schedules allowing. These aircraft are not offered for hire or reward. Vanguard Helicopters are also owners, and offer a total management service to you and other fractional owners. No aircraft will fly without an owner on board or without an owners written permission, in which case it will be flown by one of the nominated pilots of Vanguard Helicopters Ltd. at no additional cost.

Having bought a share, can I ever sell it if I choose to?

Vanguard Helicopters will guarantee to buy your share at the same price that you paid after one year of ownership. But you will need to complete one year of ownership with all payments satisfactorily received by Vanguard Helicopters before you will be eligible for a re-purchase.

Explain how the hourly rate is calculated?

Aircraft have both fixed costs, which includes capital, insurance, hangarage, management, depreciation etc., and running costs, which include maintenance, fuel, oil, etc. We are able to calculate a cost that will cover all these overheads, based on an expectation of annual use.

What happens if I do not use 30 hours per year?

You still have to make the monthly payments. Being a part owner, your responsibilities continue, whether or not you fly the aircraft. However you may accumulate hours unused for use in the future. All monthly payments will cease should you wish to sell your share after 12 months.

Can I fly at night, or in bad weather?

No. If you need to travel urgently, we will collect you and your baggage by car and take the earliest ferry opportunity to your destination. The cost will be all ferry costs, accommodation for driver, if applicable, and £1.50 per road mile incurred on journey. There will be no fuel charge or payment for driver. Gratuities to the driver will be at your own discretion. This is another non-commercial service, offered solely to you, as fractional owners of the aircraft.

Are there any additional costs?

If we are unable to land on your own private property and you would like to be flown to a local airstrip, you might incur landing fees, however this is seldom more than £20.00.

Can I take an animal?

We will make all necessary enquiries for you. Providing your pet is legally able to travel, and a suitable carrying cage will fit in the aircraft, it should be possible.