New & Used Helicopters For Sale

What is a helicopter?

A helicopter is a type of rotary-wing aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing, making it ideal for operations in confined areas and specialised aerial tasks. Commercial helicopters are utilised across a range of industries, including passenger transportation, aerial work, surveying, filming, and search and rescue operations. 

In the UK, commercial helicopter operations must comply with Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations covering aircraft registration, pilot licensing, and operational safety requirements.

Popular types of helicopters for sale

Helicopters are used across a wide range of commercial and specialist operations, with different aircraft designed to suit specific roles, environments, and workloads. Understanding the main categories can help narrow down the most suitable options for your needs.

Common helicopter types include:

• Light helicopters: Typically used for training, private operations, and light commercial work. These aircraft are well suited to short-range flights, lower operating costs, and flexible deployment.
• Medium helicopters: A popular choice for passenger transport, surveying, and utility work, offering a balance of payload capacity, range, and operational versatility.
• Heavy helicopters: Designed for demanding applications such as heavy lifting, offshore operations, and specialist industrial work, where higher payloads and extended endurance are required.
• Single-engine vs twin-engine helicopters: Single-engine helicopters are often favoured for lower operating costs and simpler missions, while twin-engine helicopters provide additional redundancy and are commonly used for passenger transport and critical operations.
• Utility and specialist helicopters: Aircraft configured for emergency medical services (EMS), search and rescue (SAR), aerial work, and other specialist roles that require customised equipment and capabilities.

This variety allows buyers to identify aircraft that align closely with their operational objectives.

What to consider before buying a helicopter

Before purchasing a helicopter, it’s important to assess how the aircraft will be used and the practical requirements involved in ownership and operation.

Key considerations include:

• Intended use: Whether the helicopter will be used for transport, surveying, emergency response, or utility work will influence size, configuration, and performance requirements.
• Payload, range, and endurance: Factors such as passenger numbers, equipment weight, and flight duration should be carefully evaluated.
• Operating and maintenance costs: Beyond the purchase price, owners should consider fuel consumption, routine servicing, parts availability, and long-term maintenance commitments.
• Hangarage and operational base requirements: Storage, ground handling, and base location can affect both costs and operational efficiency.
• CAA compliance and pilot licensing needs: Commercial helicopter operations in the UK must meet Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) requirements relating to aircraft certification and pilot qualifications.
• Availability of parts and approved maintenance providers: Access to authorised maintenance organisations and spare parts is essential for reliable, compliant operation.

Taking these factors into account helps ensure the aircraft selected is both suitable and sustainable for long-term use.

Who uses commercial helicopters?

Commercial helicopters are relied upon by organisations that require flexible, efficient aerial access and transport capabilities.

Typical users include:

• Corporate and executive transport operators
• Emergency services and air ambulance providers
• Utility and infrastructure companies
• Surveying, filming, and aerial work operators
• Charter services and flight training organisations

If your operations demand speed, access to remote locations, or specialised aerial capabilities, commercial helicopters offer a versatile and proven solution.

What locations do we serve for helicopters?

As a buyer-to-seller marketplace, we feature helicopters from across the UK. Use our filters to quickly find available aircraft near you.

Why choose The Commercial Trader for your new and used helicopters?

The Commercial Trader is one of the UK’s leading marketplaces for commercial vehicles and equipment, offering a wide selection of helicopters to meet your operational needs at competitive prices.

Whether you’re equipping a corporate flight operation, supporting emergency services, or investing in utility aviation capabilities, our platform connects you with trusted sellers and a range of aircraft tailored to UK business requirements.

Learn more about us, or contact us if you have any questions.

Can I return a helicopter?

As we operate as a buyer-to-seller marketplace, any returns policy must be agreed directly with the seller.

How much does it cost to own a helicopter in the UK? 

Helicopter prices vary widely, with used helicopters at more affordable prices. But it’s important to note that, beyond the initial investment, owners must also account for running expenses and maintenance costs. You can contact our team today to find the best options for your business type. 

What other aviation and drones do we sell? 

We sell a range of drones and aviation, including:

• Cargo planes for sale 
• Commercial drones for sale
• Jet planes for sale 
• Other aviation and commercial drones 
• Prop passenger planes