Brexit impact minimal, says industry
HEMS has the biggest growth potential for the next 10 years, according to 28 per cent of survey respondents.
A new industry survey has revealed that 53 per cent of respondents believe their business will not be impacted by Britain’s exit from the European Union (so-called ‘Brexit’), said the organiser’s of helicopter trade show Helitech International. Furthermore, 73 per cent expect Asia to deliver the biggest increase in sales over the next year.
According to Helitech International’s survey, around 30 per cent of respondents in the rotorcraft industry believe Brexit will have a direct effect, and under 20 per cent remain undecided.
Regarding regulations, approximately two thirds of the industry do not think that Brexit will result in more regulations for operators. This is testament to the global nature of the industry that many feel negotiations between Britain and the EU will have a limited effect on regulations around the world, said Helitech International.
The industry believes that helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) has the biggest growth potential for the next 10 years, according to 28 per cent of survey respondents. The low numbers of HEMS rotorcraft across certain parts of the world, particularly in Asia, is expected to be the catalyst for investment in the near future.
Overall, around two thirds of respondents believe that the helicopter industry will experience growth over the next five years. Meanwhile, 60 per cent feel that in comparison to the aviation industry as a whole, the pace of innovation is lagging in the rotorcraft sector. However, the industry is undecided on the need for a certified civil tiltrotor. When asked ‘Do you think there is market appetite for a certified civil tiltrotor or compound aircraft that would provide significant advances in speed and range?’ 53 per cent responded ‘yes’, while 47 per cent said ‘no’.
Gillian Jenner, editorial director at Helitech International, commented: “Overall, the outlook within the industry remains a positive one, with the HEMS sector and Asian markets predicted to be big earners over the coming years, while the impact of Brexit is expected to be minimal.”