Repair of the D1 highway has increased demand for small helicopters

Bohuňovice (Olomoucko) - A large-scale repair of the D1 motorway between Prague and Brno, which began in April and will last for several years, has increased the demand for ultralight helicopters. Entrepreneurs are concerned about long traffic jams and frequent complications on this busiest domestic transport artery, and more of them are considering the purchase of a small helicopter that would significantly facilitate their regular travel between Prague and Moravia.
    "Entrepreneurs seem to have considerable concerns about the repair of the D1 motorway. Many are now asking about the conditions under which they can purchase an ultralight helicopter from us, mentioning the reconstruction of the motorway. We have already acquired our first customer, whose decision to purchase a helicopter has been significantly influenced by the ongoing D1 repair," said Ivo Brumar from Mamba Air, the only domestic seller of Italian ultralight helicopters CH-7 and CH-77.
    Mamba Air is based at the airport in Bohuňovice in the Olomouc region and offers three types of ultralight helicopters, with prices ranging from 129,000 euros (3.3 million Czech crowns) to 155,000 euros (four million Czech crowns). For entrepreneurs who frequently travel for business, for example between Prague and Brno, according to Brumar, a million-crown investment in a helicopter is worthwhile. "A flight to Prague takes just over an hour in our helicopter, and they do not have to worry about arriving late to an important meeting due to traffic jams and missing out on a lucrative contract. For many entrepreneurs, this is a compelling reason to consider purchasing an ultralight helicopter," noted Brumar.
    Every year, Mamba Air assembles and sells an average of ten ultralight helicopters, for which it also provides maintenance. "We have been in the market for 13 years, and during that time we have sold 70 helicopters. Demand is stable, and the waiting times are now six to 18 months," said Brumar.
    According to Brumar, entrepreneurs previously purchased ultralight helicopters mainly for leisure, but in recent years their practical use has gained importance. Helicopters are used, for example, for trips to their companies operating in various parts of the country. Driving a car would take too much time. "They are primarily purchased by older men who are successfully running businesses and, after establishing a foundation, decide to invest in their hobbies. Some fulfill their childhood dream; others take a flight once and become hooked on helicopters," Brumar added.
    Ultralight helicopters can be flown year-round. Only the weather matters. "The worst is autumn and winter when fog is frequent. In contrast, in summer, one can fly practically daily. Even if there is a storm on the planned route, it is not a problem to fly around it and arrive at the destination with minor delays," said Brumar.
    Operating and maintaining an ultralight helicopter costs the owner about the same as a more expensive model of a personal car. For one flight hour, which is enough to cover almost the entire distance between Prague and Brno, the helicopter consumes 15 to 18 liters of Natural gasoline.
    To obtain a pilot's license for an ultralight helicopter, one must undergo a special course, which includes 40 flight hours. If the helicopter owner lives in a secluded area, they can then land the small helicopter in the backyard of their home or on their company's premises. Entrepreneurs who live in urban areas often rent a small space on the outskirts of the city, where they place an old shipping container and have a makeshift hangar. "Flying in ultralight helicopters is very safe. Occasionally, an accident may occur, but it is practically always due to human error, not technical issues," added Brumar.