Mechanical fault grounds Penzance Helicopters' only aircraft after safety inspection
The fault is said to require specialist equipment - halting services between the mainland and the Isles of Scilly
Last updated 15th Jun 2024
The director of Penzance Helicopters says they're doing everything to put an end to the 'frustrating' disruption as their only aircraft's been grounded.
Dr Simon Mitchell says it's because of a fault that needs specialist equipment but are working hard to bring the vital service back between the Mainland and the Isles of Scilly.
They've been using alternative aircraft because of the faults experienced by G-PNZE, their regular helicopter, which has led to some 'unavoidable delays and service disruption'.
Their long awaited second aircraft is due in early June, which means there will be two aircraft permanently stationed at Penzance Heliport.
In a statement on social media, Dr Simon Mitchell said: "We fully appreciate how incredibly frustrating the recent disruption has been to our passengers and transport partners, but we will not compromise safety by rushing the aircraft back into service. I assure you that the whole company is working all hours and doing everything possible to affect the repair quickly and safely and to continue to provide a helicopter service for visitors and the island community.
"Over recent weeks, operational restrictions have made it necessary to amend some flight times or to fly to and from Tresco Heliport rather than St Mary’s Airport. We are doing our utmost to keep any flight time changes to a minimum and provide complimentary transfers where alternative arrival or departure points are used.
"Passengers booked to travel with us over the next week or so should rest assured that if there are any changes to your travel plans, we will contact you at the earliest possible opportunity. We would ask that you do not contact us regarding potential changes; we will be in touch as soon as we have any information. If you do not hear from us, please check in as per your original booking.
"Since we took over the Penzance Helicopters service in November, it has been my personal wish to be as open and transparent as possible, even when things go wrong.
"I wish to extend my sincere thanks to our travel partners, the teams at Tresco Heliport and St Mary's Airport, our dedicated team at Penzance, our friends in the helicopter industry who are supporting us, and most of all, you, our passengers, for your support, patience and understanding."