Finland's Hendell Aviation (Helsinki Vantaa) says the UK is 'ripe for commercial operations' and is considering setting up a base there. The PC-12 specialist, which works closely with Switzerland's Fly 7 Executive Aviation (Lausanne), is looking to capitalise on the EU's recent decision to allow single-engined turbine aircraft to conduct commercial flights at night or in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).

“Our aim is to create a bridge between Switzerland, France and the UK,” said Hendell Chairman Matti Auterinen.

The two companies provide management and operational services for PC-12s, as well as training and charter of aircraft. They say that they have seen an increase in charter demand and expect the new EASA rules to contribute to the upward trend.

“Consider the PC-12 can access 2,000 airfields in Europe that are not accessible by jet and at a much more affordable cost," said Fly 7 CEO Yves Roch. "We are confident that with the new EASA rulings we are going to see a new customer base of people who had previously dismissed private air charter because of the cost."

Hendell and Fly 7 have also said that they are looking at expanding into other markets, such as medevac, aerial surveys, and cargo.