The HELICOPTER CLUB of GREAT BRITAIN
The annual general meeting of the Helicopter Club of Great Britain, arguably the largest private helicopter owner/pilot organisation in Europe and possibly in the world, saw the outgoing Chairman Adrian Martin report on a successful 1998 social calendar. Fly-in visits during the year included tours of J.C.Bamford, the Accident Investigation Branch, and the Cosford Aerospace Museum, plus a fire-power demonstration by the Army Air Corps, and a cross-channel trip to France. Club members also flew 15 air traffic controllers from London Heathrow on familiarisation and goodwill flights, something the Club would like to extend to other major UK airports. In addition the Club is continuing to build up its "Fighting Fund", for use in the event of threats to the operation and rights of private helicopter flying in the UK. £500.00 was donated last year to support Elmsett airfield in Suffolk, which has been facing environmental objections.
The 1999 programme has yet to be confirmed, but will include the British Helicopter Championships at a new venue, Marlborough Park near Silverstone, at the end of June. A mountain-flying course in Scotland is also planned, as well as the Club's first organised visit to Northern Ireland.
The new Chairman for 1999-2000 is Roy Harford, owner of a Robinson R44, whilst new committee members elected are George Heritage and Tim Gilbert, both of whom are also helicopter owners.