Leonardo opens new UK helicopter support hub at Elstree

Leonardo has opened a new helicopter maintenance and support facility at London Elstree Aerodrome as part of a £15 million investment aimed at strengthening its long-term presence in the UK civil aviation market.

The site, Leonardo’s 10th operational location in the UK, will provide manufacturer-approved maintenance, logistics, and technical support for Leonardo civil helicopters operating across the UK and Ireland. Initial stock investment in components and parts is estimated at more than £10 million.

The facility will initially employ 10 staff, with workforce numbers expected to increase to around 25 during peak periods. Up to four aircraft can be accommodated simultaneously.

Leonardo said the site would support the UK’s fleet of more than 200 Leonardo helicopters, around 30 of which are used in emergency medical services (EMS) and other specialist operations.

Vittorio Della Bella, Senior Vice President of Customer Support and Training Services at Leonardo Helicopters, said: “The opening of our Elstree facility marks an important step in strengthening our support for Leonardo’s civil helicopter customers in the UK and Ireland. This… enhances our responsiveness and reinforces our commitment to delivering the highest standards of OEM support.”

The company will also work with the University of Hertfordshire to help develop future aerospace engineers and technicians.

Leonardo recently selected the Onboard Pegasus rescue hoist for its AW139 fleet.