The Worlds First Skydive through Tower Bridge
Red Bull Wingsuit Skydive over Tower Bridge
Professional skydivers Marco Waltespiel and Marco Fürst accomplished the first wingsuit flight through Tower Bridge. At 5:25 am on Sunday, 12th May, above London. The duo leapt from one of our AS355 helicopters, at an altitude of 3,000 feet. Accelerating to speeds of up to 153mph during their freefall, they descended as close as 35 meters above the River Thames flying in between the towers of the bridge. Skilfully executing a complex manoeuvre called a "flare". They ascended back up to 80 meters, the necessary height to deploy their parachutes safely before landing.
Executing The World’s First Wingsuit Skydive Through Tower Bridge
For this project, the aircraft used as the picture ship and aerial stunt underwent a transformation and was branded as a Red Bull machine with the use of vinyl. The helicopter wrap changed the appearance of G-OLCP from its original VIP silver and black to a vibrant blue. The aircraft was adorned with the iconic Red Bull logo placed across both the side and tail of the aircraft.
Additionally, the branded helicopter, with the wingsuit pair on board, had another modification which involved the removal of one of the doors. With these preparations complete, the pair executed a skydive - an aerial stunt well within our realm of expertise.
To execute the aerial filming for Red Bull, we deployed a second AS355 helicopter paired with the Shotover K1, equipped with a RED V-Raptor camera and a Canon 50-5000mm lens. Pilot Will Banks served as the camera pilot, with Phil Arntz as the Director of Photography.
Permissions Required
Tower Bridge was purposely closed for the world's first skydive for wingsuiters, Waltespiel and Fürst to fly through Tower Bridge.
To accomplish this unique and world-first skydive through Tower Bridge, we obtained the necessary permissions to ascend into Heathrow Class A airspace, along with our long-standing permit for low-level flying.
For this project, we collaborated with The Aerial Film Company to aid in providing aerial filming services.
The Apprentice Series 18
Aerial Filming for The Apprentice Series 18
Back for its 18th series, the esteemed entrepreneur show on BBC One marks the return of Alan Sugar, Baroness Karren Brady, and Tim Campbell. Viewers can anticipate another captivating season as a new group of aspiring entrepreneurs strive to impress and compete for the chance to become Lord Sugar's next business partner.
This series will showcase the candidates participating in a range of business-related challenges. The first task will involve organising a luxury corporate hospitality day for clients. Their performance throughout each task will decide their continuation in the series, as they tackle other tasks such as creating a virtual escape room, innovating nutritious cereals for children, a tourism challenge in Budapest, and showcasing their marketing skills in the TV shopping channel challenge.
AERIAL FILMING IN LONDON
Our extensive collaboration with the BBC Creative team spans various projects over the years. Since 2022, we have been working closely with them to capture aerial footage for The Apprentice. The instrumental role played by the GB Helicopters aerial film team's expertise was evident in producing the aerial footage for Series 18 of The Apprentice.
Similar to the approach taken in Series 16 and 17 of The Apprentice. We engaged in discussions with the production team. During these conversations, they outlined their desires and requirements for the shots. GB Helicopters director and chief pilot Will Banks took flight in one of our twin-engine AS355 helicopters across London and the surrounding areas. Our helicopter was equipped with the state-of-the-art GSS C516 compact lightweight gyro-stabilized gimble and RedEpic camera system. Allowing us to capture the aerial footage to be used within the production of The Apprentice.
Throughout the series, audiences can witness the aerial footage we've filmed, seamlessly integrated into transition scenes.
AERIAL FILMING FOR TELEVISION
At GB Helicopters we are no strangers when it comes to Aerial Filming for TV. Our experience includes working on numerous productions, such as Studio Lambert's compelling psychological competition series, "The Traitors," spanning both the UK and US productions in series 1 & 2.
We have also been part of the success behind Netflix's highly popular series "Fool Me Once." Beyond that, our capabilities extend to helicopter stunts such as skydiving, helicopter jumps, and long-lining (external human underslung). No matter how distinctive your vision may be. Our team at GB Helicopters will work with you to ensure to bring your vision to reality.
Discuss your upcoming production with our specialist operations team and see how you can use our aerial film services. Email them directly at ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or complete the form below.
The Apprentice is available to watch on BBC One and iPlayer.
Helicopter Picture Ships for Fool Me Once
Netflix - Fool Me Once
Quay Street Productions' adaptation of Harlan Coben's novel Fool Me Once stars Michelle Keegan as Maya Stern, a flight instructor who is dealing with the loss of her husband, Joe. In an effort to keep an eye on her daughter. Maya discovers her supposedly deceased husband in her home after she installs a nanny cam.
Providing Picture Ships
Quay Street Productions contacted our operations team at GB Helicopters. After initial meetings, and a visit to view the different aircraft in our fleet. Production decided that the AS355 Twin Squirrel met their needs. In terms of the 'on film' appearance and the ample cabin space the aircraft offered for the cameraman and director. Using two aircraft maximised the flexibility to the production and have the ability to shoot in two places at once. Two of our pilots were dedicated to the task, Captain’s Jonny Stocken and Dan Hagan. They both were briefed and carried out various scenes both on and off camera.
During the production of Fool Me Once, our AS355 helicopters were captured in several places and reinforced the helicopter pilot background of lead actress Michelle Keegan. While filming Fool Me Once, our AS355 helicopters appeared prominently in multiple scenes, enhancing lead actress Michelle Keegan's portrayal of a helicopter pilot.
Barton Aerodrome was a key location in filming. While briefings occurred on the ground and one aircraft remained stationary, our aircraft seamlessly flew through the captured frames.
Throughout the series, our aircraft appear in several episodes in various phases of flight. Filmed from the ground and from within. One instance includes landing in a clearing in Delamere Forest, following an unexpected helicopter based car chase.
Overall, GB Helicopters played a crucial role in the production of Fool Me Once, providing both aircraft and pilots for the filming process.
GB Helicopters Operations for Fool Me Once
As part of our risk assessment process, GB Helicopters Director and Chief Pilot, Will Banks, conducted a recce to Delamere Forest. He travelled by road to verify there was adequate cleared space for the aircraft to land and depart safely. He also checked the suitability of the landing site for the aircraft.
Throughout filming, for this project, we obtained the permissions necessary to allow us to achieve the required footage. This includes landing permissions from Forestry England for Delamere Forest.
The booking of helicopter landings at Manchester Barton Aerodrome was expertly handled by our operations team, who also coordinated with Quay Street Productions ensuring all relevant parties were informed about the necessary filming tasks.
Fool Me Once was released on 1st January and is available on Netflix.
GB Helicopters - Aerial Filming Enquiry
Our operations team is ready to assist you with any requirements you may have for your next production. You can contact our operations team by emailing them directly at ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or by completing the form below.
Suspending Tom Scott from a Helicopter
A FAREWELL TO TOM SCOTT
Tom Scott, a well-known YouTube creator, recently announced that he will be retiring from making videos. Marking the end of an era for one of the platform's most established creators. In a video he released on the 1st of January, titled "After ten years, it's time to stop making videos". Tom announced his decision to step away from his content creation duties.
Throughout his time on YouTube. Tom Scott has covered a wide variety of topics including data science, science experiments, history, and educational cultural explorations. He has gained a loyal following of fans who have come to appreciate his unique approach to presenting complex ideas in a fun and engaging way.
GREATEST MOMENTS FEATURING GB HELICOPTERS
In his final video, Tom bids farewell to his viewers and reminisces about some of the most memorable moments from his channel. He shares some of the greatest moments including bloopers, behind-the-scenes footage, and highlights from his most popular videos.
For a long time, Tom had wanted to try something exciting on his YouTube Channel but had never found a reason to do so. This dream involved being harnessed to the underbelly of a helicopter. An experience Tom had always desired to film and share with his viewers. Finally, in his latest video montage, Tom was able to fulfil this wish. He ended his series with incredible footage of himself suspended by one of our AS355 helicopters.
Helicopters, long-lining and human underslung
At GB Helicopters dangling people from a helicopter isn’t an unusual request. We have conducted this stunt previously for Harry Styles' "Sign of the Times" music video, and most recently for a giant Dorito (albeit not a human). Taking part in Tom Scott's ultimate content release was a delight for us at GB Helicopters, and we were happy to make his dreams come true by suspending him from one of our helicopters.
Director and Chief Pilot Will Banks flew the twin-engine aircraft, G-GBTV to Little Staughton Airfield. Upon arrival, our team provided Tom with a safety briefing. He was then securely harnessed to our long line. Finally, Tom took flight across the airfield whilst being suspended from our aircraft.
PERMISSIONS REQUIRED
We required a permit from the CAA for using our Human External Transport System, this was obtained as task specific for this activity. Lec Park drone company shot the aerial footage for Tom Scott's farewell video. We have a close relationship with Lec Park after years of collaboration on countless projects.
Watch Tom Scotts latest upload on his YouTube Channel: @TomScottGo.
Aerial Stunts
At GB Helicopters we have the capability and expertise to safely execute helicopter stunts, one of the only helicopter providers in the UK to do so outside of military operations . So, if you're looking to perform a skydive, or a heli-jump, or you have an unusual request, don't hesitate to contact our operations team. Let's discuss your aerial stunt today!
The World's highest Cheese Pull with Doritos
GB Helicopters Long Lining a Giant Dorito
At GB Helicopters we’re no strangers to receiving both unique and extraordinary helicopter requests. One such request came from Good Relations PR earlier this year. They approached us with an exciting idea: to dangle an enormous Dorito and dip it into a massive amount of cheese. All in the name of setting the world record for the highest cheese pull.
This aerial stunt was the perfect opportunity for us to showcase our expertise. In addition to flawlessly performing the long-lining manoeuvre. We also branded our twin-engine AS355 aircraft as Doritos, making for a truly remarkable event.
How did we organise to long-line a giant Dorito?
Our operations team were the first point of contact to provide a bespoke quotation and to ensure all permissions were granted by the CAA. Given the complexity of flying with a massive Dorito suspended from the helicopter, extensive planning was required.
At GB Helicopters we hold a fantastic relationship with RJ Signs, who we have returned to each time for each helicopter wrapping request. This project was no different! RJ Signs transformed and gave G-GBTV a crisp new look.
At GB Helicopters, we take health and safety very seriously, especially when it comes to route planning. We made sure to avoid routes that would take us over residential areas while we had the 4ft Dorito suspended from our aircraft. Ground control was also the pinnacle in the safe success of this mission. They ensured the area was secured for our sole use.
Setting the World Record for the Highest Cheese Pull
With all necessary planning and risk assessments taken into consideration, the day finally arrived. On September 12th, Abi, our Operations Manager, and GB Helicopters' Director and Chief pilot, Will Banks, set off from Cheshire to Cheddar Gorge.
As the task got underway, locals couldn't help but notice a "yellow triangle" dangling from the helicopter. Giving away that something cheesy was afoot. Word quickly spread from curious locals on social media as to what was taking place at the Gorge.
Much to the delight of our client, our helicopter G-GBTV soared over the Gorge with a massive 4-foot Dorito dangling from it. But that was just the beginning of the madness! To take things up a notch, Will flew over an enormous pot of melted cheese, dipping the Dorito into it and creating the world's highest cheese pull.
Social media star and Hits Radio Presenter Sam Thompson was also participating in the record-breaking day. Take a look below at how GB Helicopters helped Doritos break the World Record for the highest Cheese Pull.
RED BULL HOT AIR BALLOON
the world's first floating skatepark
Earlier this year, a large Red Bull hot air balloon was sighted hauling a mysterious object in the air. Flying above Wiltshire the aircraft and hanging object caused quite a stir across media outlets.
Speculating across social media, some were convinced it was a ‘hot tub’ or a ‘swimming pool’. Residents with a knack for photography managed to capture the mysterious object floating beneath the hot air balloon. Putting the rumours to rest the images presented a BMX track. The question of why a hot air balloon was transporting a BMX course across Wiltshire went unanswered.
At GB Helicopters, we have previously collaborated with Red Bull, but this time it was something different.
British professional BMX rider Kriss Kyle took up a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, performing BMX stunts on the world’s first floating skatepark. From one record to another, to be able to carry the 1.7- ton skatepark as the hot air balloon was six times larger than a typical hot air balloon.
The reasoning behind this was for BMX professional rider Kriss Kyle to perform an array of BMX stunts for his next ground-breaking BMX film, Don't Look Down.
Helicopters and the Red Bull hot air balloon
After learning what and why a hot air balloon was carrying a floating skatepark, there is still the element of two helicopters flying beside them.
Our aerial film services provided Kriss with stabilised UHD aerial footage while he was performing BMX tricks on a floating skatepark.
For this project, we operated two of our twin-engine AS355 helicopters. One helicopter was rigged with our GSS C516, known for its superior stabilisation fitted with our RED Epic camera and 30- 300 lens. Capturing fantastic aerial footage of both the hot air balloon and BMX skatepark bowl.
Our second aircraft had photographer Eisa Bakos on board. Harnessed to the rear of the cabin with the door open taking photographs of the ultimate record-breaking, event.
Aerial Filming Permissions and Planning
We were in comms with the Red Bull team for 12 months prior to the date of filming. During these 12 months, we waited for the skatepark and hot air balloon to be constructed and passed all required permissions. Since we were exclusively conducting the aerial filming for this project, we required our usual low-level flying permit.
Once we had the go-ahead, we were then relying on the unpredictable British weather. As this stunt required cool, dry and the rare combination of high atmospheric pressures for the hot air balloon we waited for a weather window for the event to take place for ideal flying.
Ahead of filming, we participated in online briefings, leading us to the main event. Prior to filming our pilots were both briefed as they were operating a helicopter within the same area. Both of our pilots also held a briefing with the hot air balloon pilot to ensure they de-conflicted. To ensure there was communication with ground support, our team used handheld radios while in flight.
If you would like to use our aerial filming services for another pioneering activity contact our operations team today at 0800 030 4105 or email us at ops@gbconcierge.co.uk.
Special Operations Platform
Film and TV purposes
Our TSOP specialist operations platform is designed to make helicopter missions easier, safer, and more efficient. Whether you are in demand to use the benches for action, drama or entertainment purposes, the opportunities are endless.
Explore your visions and ensure the final shot of your production provides viewers with exciting and daring scenes. Are you in demand for your cast to perform a special force’s operation? Make use of our specialist operations bench as a sniper platform or complete an enhanced search and rescue mission. Heli-borne snipers can serve as aerial patrols for convoys and raid teams while providing aerial support for missions. While completing courageous operations, create a compelling and thrilling scene for your viewers.
Create a dramatic entrance for presenters, whilst engaging audience anticipation. Provide a spectacular and adventurous opening or closing title, whilst the presenters sit on the exterior of a helicopter as it glides through the sky.
Allow viewers to grasp their seats and set a daring challenge for contestants participating in a reality show. Secure the contestant onto the specialist operations benches and assess their abilities.
Involving the ‘TSOP’ as part of aerial stunts will surely add to dramatic effects. No more CGI or receiving less for the image you initially had for your production. Here at GB Helicopters, we are excited to introduce our specialist operations platform for aerial film and TV uses.
There are countless purposes for the special operations bench, and we are always open to exploring. No matter how adventurous or unusual your requests are we will do our best to fulfil them.
Our specialist operations platform can be paired together with either our H125 or AS355 aircraft.
Time Efficient
Taking only five minutes to install. The benches are externally mounted to the rear of the cabin and fuselage area, with jack points, unique clamps, and brackets.
Safety Measures
Built with an aerodynamic design and provides dual seating. The TSOP allows four individuals to be positioned and secured to the benches. Once installed, the platform allows up to 500 lbs capacity on either side of the platform. The stable platforms have anchor points for a safety harness/belt.
Safety is paramount to us; we will always adhere to safety regulations in line with the CAA.
To use our Special Operations Platform email our operations team at ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or call us on 0800 030 4105
Series 17 The Apprentice
The Apprentice
At the start of the year, we saw the return of BBC One’s most popular entrepreneur show, The Apprentice. Staring the nation’s favourite businessman, Lord Sugar for series 17.
We saw the candidates sell and run bespoke tours on the magnificent Caribbean Island of Antigua. They have created advertising campaigns for electric motorbikes, and branded and packaged dog food, naming a few of their projects.
The line-up gradually reduced from 18 to the winning contestant. We witnessed toe-curling negotiations, firings, and a number of disgruntled clients followed by the announcement of who was to become Lord Sugars’ next business partner.
GB Helicopters Tasked with Aerial Filming
Now, we have enlightened you on some of the projects the candidates worked on during the production. Discover GB Helicopters’ involvement in series 17 of The Apprentice.
In 2022 we collaborated with the BBC Creative team on various projects, including series 16 of The Apprentice. We accomplished and exceeded the producers' expectations when conducting the aerial filming, and they contacted us again.
Following discussions with the producers, they specified their desired shots. We were required to capture aerial shots across London and popular landmarks of the city. Our twin-squirrel AS355 helicopter was the ideal aircraft for this project.
To conduct the aerial filming for The Apprentice, we rigged the helicopter with our GSS C516 compact lightweight gyro-stabilised gimbal. The GSS C516 can be fitted with a range of camera and lens payloads. To carry out the aerial filming for The Apprentice, we paired the GSS with our Red Epic camera and the Canon 30 – 300 lens.
You can watch the aerial footage we shot for The Apprentice throughout series 17 as crossovers between scenes.
Bespoke Aerial Film Services
At GB Helicopters we have provided aerial filming services to the film, TV and commercial industries. Covering a range of aerial film services such as air-to-air filming, live broadcasting and aerial stunts, we’ve covered everything. And if we haven’t already, discuss it with our team to explore your visions.
Contact our operations team today to use our aerial film services for your next project! Complete the form below and a member of our team will be in contact with you shortly.
Aerial Film Services
The Apprentice series 17 is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
Series 5 Celebrity Hunted
Stand up 2 Cancer - Celebrity Hunted
Ten fresh, famous faces are returning to Channel 4 for the show’s fifth series. Celebrities now known as fugitives are on the run for, Stand Up To Cancer’s Celebrity Hunted. Over the years we have worked on numerous projects with Shine TV and have collaborated with them for both Hunted and Celebrity Hunted. Take a look at our involvement in series 4 of Celebrity Hunted.
For series 5 of Celebrity Hunted, GB Helicopters were called to conduct the aerial filming, while also helping to track the well-known fugitives.
Conducting the aerial filming
For series 5 of Celebrity Hunted, we operated two AS355 twin-engine helicopters' to conduct the aerial filming.
On board with the pilot was a hunter tracking the fugitives, coordinating with the ground team to track and capture the celebrities.
Rigged to the helicopter was a state-of-the-art GSS C516, a lightweight and compact gyro-stabilised camera system. To capture the shots for series 5 of Celebrity Hunted we paired our GSS with our RED Epic Dragon.
Shropshire was one of the locations we were tasked to fly to, for series 5 of Celebrity Hunted. This was well documented on social media and media outlets on the day of filming since many spotted our aircraft and shared their sightings.
Flying above Shrewsbury prison we captured shots of the celebrity fugitives escaping the former prison. Using the footage were the professional hunters on board, transmitting the footage to the ground team, and keeping track of the fugitives' locations.
As documented, this was the start of the celebrity fugitives attempting to remain undetected by the former police and intelligence officials.
Celebrity Fugitives Line-up
The celebrity fugitives taking part and paired together for Channel 4's Celebrity Hunted are the following.
- Nik Speakman and Eva Speakman
- Ed Gamble and James Acaster
- Katya Jones and Amiee Fuller
- Saffron Barker and Bobby Seagull
- Nicola Thorp and Nikesh Patel
Permissions Required
We obtained the necessary permissions for the aerial filming of series 5 Celebrity Hunted. We utilised our long-standing low-level permit from the CAA to conduct the aerial filming for this project.
Our operations team and pilots boast a wealth of expertise working with producers and directors for aerial filming projects. Please discuss with our team to make your vision a reality with our aerial filming services. Call us on 0800 030 4105 or complete the contact form below.
Aerial Film Services
Celebrity Hunted is available to watch on Channel 4 and All 4.
Guys’ Great British Power Trip
GUY MARTIN INVESTIGATING UK POWER SOURCES
With rising energy bills, Guy Martin aims to discover why electricity is costing so much. The former TT racer hosted a three-part series Guys' Great British Power Trip, which aired on Sunday 12th February at 9pm on Channel 4.
Learning how renewable energy works, Guy goes behind the scenes at the Drax power station in Yorkshire. Inspecting the mills and boilers used to create electricity from wood pellets.
Exploring the National Grids Control Centre, Guy Martin took flight in their helicopter. The National Grid routinely inspect electricity pylons, every day. Capturing Guy and the National Grids aircraft in action, was our team at GB Helicopters.
PREPARATION FOR AIR-TO-AIR FILMING FOR GUYS' GREAT BRITISH POWER TRIP
In 2020 North One Television contacted us and we successfully provided aerial film services and picture ships for Guy Martins: Battle of Britain. Following this remarkable production, they approached us again! This time it was to conduct the air-to-air filming for the production of Guys' Great British Power Trip.
Our team was delighted to be working with North One and Guy again. After corresponding with North One Television producers and coordinators at National Grid. Abi, our operations manager, identified filming locations in order to plan for any refuelling stops.
Before flying out to the Drax power station, one of our AS355 twin-engine helicopters was fitted with our GSS C516 camera system. We paired the GSS camera system with our compact, lightweight Sony P1 camera. The Sony P1 is a high-definition compact camera, with the flexibility to film almost anywhere making it the perfect match for this project.
While Guy and the electrical transmission team were on board the National Grids helicopter conducting power line inspections over Nottinghamshire. Our experienced pilot followed them, flying in our AS355 helicopter, capturing the aerial footage.
Take a look at some of the aerial shots we took for Guys' Great British Power Trip.
PERMISSIONS REQUIRED
We obtained the necessary permissions for Guys' Great British Power Trip, allowing us to perform aerial filming for this project at our long-standing low-level flying permit.
If you are looking for an aerial cinematographer for your next project. Complete the form below and a member of our operations team will be in contact with you shortly. Alternatively, you can call us on 0800 030 4105 or email us at ops@gbconcierge.co.uk.
Aerial Filming services
Guy's Great British Power Trip is available to watch on All 4.
The Traitors
What is BBC One The Traitors about?
The Traitors is the UK version English of the Dutch reality show “De Verraders”. It is a psychological competition where contestants decide whom they can trust. In the Scottish Highlands, at a remote castle, Claudia Winkleman welcomes 22 strangers. They begin a psychological battle in the new BBC reality competition series. To win a cash reward of up to £120,000, the competitors start the ultimate game of deception, betrayal, and trust.
Disguised amidst the 22 participants are those known as Traitors, individuals hand-picked by Winkleman at the beginning of the series at 'the roundtable'. The remaining members are referred to as the ‘Faithfuls’.
The Traitors' mission is to assassinate one of the other players every night while avoiding detection from the Faithfuls. Before they become the next victim, the Faithful role is to detect who the traitors are and banish them from the game.
The competitors are given challenges to complete as a team, whether a Traitor or a Faithful. These challenges allow the contestants to build a total cash prize of up to £120,000. By the end of the game, the surviving Faithful has the chance of winning the life-changing sum. But if the Traitor goes unnoticed, they can take it all.
How did GB Helicopters participate?
For this project of The Traitors, we conducted many of our services from aerial filming and helicopter stunts. Working with Studio Lambert and the BBC, we made their vision a reality as we perform many services under our umbrella of aerial filming services. Our expert team at GB Helicopters do their best to exceed producers’ vision for their projects.
Flying over the Scottish Highlands in our AS355 helicopter rigged with our Red Epic Dragon camera to capture the picturesque views. The footage provided the series with aerial shots of the scenery and castle used within the production. The shots taken are seen throughout the series as crossovers.
The production team requested footage of the Jacobite Steam Train crossing The Glenfinnan Viaduct, renowned for its appearances in the Harry Potter blockbusters. The train travels from Fort William to Mallaig twice daily. We examined the train schedule to ensure we were airborne ahead of time to capture the incredible shots. The opening title of the series includes this footage of the Jacobite Steam Train.
Who doesn’t get excited about an aerial stunt?
At GB Helicopters we are well-known for carrying out aerial stunts for TV productions. You can see our previous aerial stunts in various productions which aired last year such as Gordon Ramsay’s Future Food Stars, and RTEs Ultimate Hell Week. Studio Lambert and the BBC took the opportunity to put our aerial stunt expertise to the test.
Well, for The Traitors the stunt selected by the production team was the popular heli-jump. Over the bitter Scottish lake, our chief pilot and director Will Banks flew the contestants in our AS355 helicopter before they plunged into the intensity of the water. This was filmed by drone pilot Steve Peters.
Permissions required?
Throughout the filming, for this project, we obtained the permissions necessary to allow us to achieve the required footage. To enable us to conduct the aerial filming for this project we operated at our long-standing permit for low-level flying. When conducting the aerial stunts for The Traitors we obtained a permit from the CAA to allow for jumps into the cold waters.
The Traitors is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
Complete our enquiry form below to contact our operations team to use our aerial filming services for your next production.
Take a look at more of our aerial film projects.
The Peoples Postcode Lottery
The Peoples Postcode Lottery’s advert
It was great to be working alongside director Marcus Liversedge at ITV’s Creative team again for The Peoples Postcode Lottery. We previously collaborated with him at last year's Brit Awards, where we flew the legendary Liam Gallagher to the award show as part of his stage debut.
Collaborating with ITV's Creative production team and The People’s Postcode Lottery, our team was tasked to conduct aerial filming for this project. Aiding to produce the 2022 Christmas edition of the advert.
Our Involvement and equipment
The spectacular red aircraft, supplied by us! Perfectly complemented the production of the Peoples Postcode Lottery advert, as it paired with their brand colours. Our chief pilot and director of GB Helicopters Will Banks was the pilot of this aircraft. Performing low-level flying, Will soared above The Peoples Postcode Lottery’s red lorry, following along its path.
To acquire productions required footage for this project, putting his pilot skills to the test. Will ensured to keep the aircraft at a minimum of 10 metres apart from the lorry as he flew along the lorries route.
We handed the task of capturing shots of the red picture ships to one of our experienced pilots. Flying in one of our twin-engine AS355 helicopters, rigged with our GSS C516 system fitted with our Red Epic Dragon to conduct the aerial filming.
To achieve incredible shots of the helicopter and lorry in a single frame, the pilot shadowed both the red aircraft and the lorry. The twin-engine pilot flew above both, capturing fantastic shots of the picture ships in a single frame.
Permissions required
We hold a permit from the CAA to conduct low-level flying. The aircraft operated at a low level no closer than 10 meters from the lorry. While ensuring the shot of the helicopter and lorry was possible in a single frame. The 10 meters from the lorry and red helicopter included all aircraft parts, including the rotors. Our AS355 aircraft remained a minimum of 200’ separated from the red aircraft and lorry throughout production.
Aerial Filming Services
BBC One Ambulance
Aerial Filming For Ambulance
Following series 9, BBC One Ambulance returns for its tenth series, focusing on the North East Ambulance Service. Since 2018, our crew has been performing aerial filming for the production of Ambulance. For series ten, we followed our amazing ambulance and paramedic crews from the sky across the North East. Series 9 and 10 are the first time BBC Ambulance has focused on the North East Ambulance and emergency response team.
How did GB Helicopters' participate in the production of BBC One's Ambulance?
Flying overhead in one of our AS355 twin-engine helicopters, we followed the emergency response teams to significant incidents across the North East. We equipped our twin-engine aircraft with our cutting-edge GSS C516 lightweight camera system and our RED Helium camera to capture the required footage.
Combining our ultra-high-definition camera systems, we flew overhead convoy with several emergency response vehicles and filming crew. This allowed us to capture the required footage of the North East ambulance service attending emergency scenes.
Additionally, we filmed overhead views of the Tyne River, Tees Transporter bridge, and scenic views. This footage captured can be seen throughout the series as transition scenes.
This series shows us a small fraction of what our paramedics attend to at heart-wrenching scenes. 24 hours 365 days a year.
Production and permissions required
GB Helicopters collaborated with Dragonfly Television and the BBC who produced the BAFTA Award-winning documentary series Ambulance.
The permissions required for this production were covered under the permit we hold from the CAA permitting us to fly at low levels.
Ambulance Series 10 air's every Wednesday on BBC One and is available on iPlayer.
Contact our operations team to use our aerial filming services by completing the form below.
Aerial Filming Enquiry
Ultimate Hell Week - The Professionals
RTE's Ultimate Hell Week
Ireland’s most brutal reality TV show returned to our screens. Participating in the most difficult and physically demanding challenges organised by an elite team of former special forces soldiers for series 5: Ultimate Hell Week. Twenty of Irelands’ most well-known faces, including social media influencers, entertainers, and sporting legends, challenge their minds, bodies, and souls.
Despite getting little sleep each night, the celebrity recruits were put through challenges they could never dream they would ever encounter. Going through the key stages of the special forces highly classified selection process consequently enduring cold-water events, height challenges, claustrophobic obstacles, and various tests of strength, stamina, and resilience.
Whilst the celebrity recruits faced the special forces demanding challenges. GB Helicopters assisted with cold water events and height testing, enabling us to execute aerial stunts.
Save the Aerial Stunts for The Professionals
GB Helicopters are the first and only Helicopter operator in the UK to own a 'Special Operations Platform’. Utilising the platforms spectacularly, this production was an excellent opportunity to introduce them. As the former Special Forces, make their dramatic entrance, they prepare to ambush the celebrity recruits on a bus.
Exposing the celebrities to the bitter waters close to Cork, Ireland. We performed one of our most popular and thrilling aerial stunts - ‘Heli-jumps’. Two celebrities stood directly on the helicopter skids before plunging themselves into the cold waters.
Lastly, our final aerial stunt for this production was to stage a helicopter accident. Our pilot skilfully, stimulated the aircraft to appear it had lost control as it "exploded" into the hills, sending the recruits on yet another overwhelming mission.
Equipment Used
For this production, we used one of our twin-engine helicopters to carry out and perform the aerial stunts. Capturing the immaculate footage was drone operator Lec Park.
For viewers in Ireland, you can watch Ultimate Hell Week - The Professionals on RTÉ One every Wednesday at 21.35.
Have these fascinating scenes inspired you for your next production? Contact us at 0800 030 4105 or email us at ops@gbconcierge.co.uk to discuss how we can assist you with your production.
Aerial Stunts Enquiries
Cobra: Cyberwar
Alongside our aerial filming work, we frequently provide our helicopters and pilots as picture ships for TV and film productions. But this new project would task us with something a little extra. As a result of being shot by a drone with a machine gun, we simulated a helicopter crash.
This would be for the second series of the Sky drama, Cobra. The six-part series titled, Cyberwar, stars Robert Carlyle and Victoria Hamilton. It sees them battle against a wave of cyber-attacks, as they try to find those responsible and restore order in the streets.
We were delighted to help bring to life this challenging scene. Ian Smith, our highly excellent pilot, was on hand to make this happen. The challenge was to produce the believable movements of a helicopter losing control, but do so in a completely controlled and safe way.
To achieve this effect, Ian took off as normal. He was then given the go-ahead to begin simulating a tail rotor failure. Ensuring he was well clear of the building, he applied full left pedal to initiate a yaw spin. After one rotation he added a little forward movement and then on the second rotation, he peeled away safely and circled back to the set, job done. In the final cut, we see Ian's helicopter 'lose control'. As he moves away, the aircraft is replaced by a CGI replica, crashing into a building.
Safety is always paramount when working with helicopters and this was no exception. This was all done with continuous communication between the pilot, the production crew on the ground and the drone team, to ensure everyone stayed clear of each other.
With Ian’s skilled flying, some CGI bullets and smoke, he helped create a very believable effect. Using a real helicopter to begin this sequence was more cost-effective than creating the whole scene using special effects.
This manoeuvre was only required for a few seconds to start the effect. The whole scene is a tense intro to the new series, setting the tone for what’s to come.
In episode two, we see our AW109SP, arriving at a makeshift command centre in response to the prior accident. This shot was a little more straightforward but still required a quick and controlled landing.
However, this wasn’t the end for Ian, as he would later take on another role. This time acting as coastguard helicopter winch operator, coming to the aid of some stranded survivors. Unfortunately, his speaking role as the AW109 pilot, didn’t make the cut.
You can see GB Helicopters and the multi-talented Ian Smith in action, on demand on Sky.
Gordon Ramsay's Future Food Stars
Gordon Ramsay is well known for his choice of language. With this in mind, his new competition series aired on BBC One on Thursday night - Gordon Ramsay’s Future Food Stars. Also known by the acronym ‘FFS’. The show offers 12 entrepreneurs the chance to win a life-changing investment from Gordon Ramsay, who will put £150,000 into their business.
Throughout the series we will see a variety of tasks set, challenging the contenders whilst highlighting each of their weaknesses. Each entrepreneur must prove to the formidable chef that their food and drink business is worth the investment. Gordon Ramsay puts his contenders straight to the test, as their first task was to do a ‘leap of faith’ off the cliff edges in Newquay.
The candidates run a business within the catering industry. We meet Amit who has created bottled Indian sauces from family recipes, Matthew who is establishing a zero-waste restaurant. Jen's business, which comprises of low-sugar bottled cocktails, are examples of diverse and unique backgrounds the entrepreneurs come from.
What was our involvement in Future Food Stars?
One of our twin-squirrel AS355s was flown by Dan Hagan during Gordon Ramsay's grand arrival. At Lust Glaze Beach in Newquay, Gordon leaps from the helicopter into the sea performing an aerial stunt. This foreshadowed what was to follow for his candidates.
Together with LecPark, we captured the required shots using their camera system and drone. As a result, we were able to film Gordon Ramsey's stunt whilst also providing us with aerial shots of our aircraft.
Required permissions
To perform the stunt we were required to be granted special permission from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). As with all our stunt work, we always ensure we have the appropriate permissions from the CAA before the project begins.
FFS airs weekly on Thursday nights on BBC One.
The Apprentice
BBC One’s most popular Series The Apprentice returned for their 16th series with new and exciting entrepreneurs. We have seen many successes and failures by the candidates throughout the series. All 16 candidates hoped to win Lord Sugar’s approval and his investment of £250,000 into their business.
The series began with high expectations from the entrepreneurs as they boarded a cruise ship in Portsmouth. The contestants' initial task was to create a marketing campaign for an upcoming cruise line.
As the tasks and series progressed we watched the contestants deal with a variety of tasks. The final task before the interview stage, Candidates were required to create and brand, a new baby food, then pitch and sell it to leading retailers.
Last Thursday, we saw Lord Sugar decide who will become his next business partner. Harpreet Kaur and Katheryn Burn were the final candidates, paired with former competitors who returned to assist them in presenting their business ideas.
GB's Involvement
Our line pilot Ian Smith took flight in one of our Twin Squirrels. We rigged our helicopter with our GSS C516 nose-mounted camera system. We also used in conjunction with the GSS camera system, our Red Epic Dragon camera and 30-300mm lens.
GB's contribution to the production of The Apprentice Series 16 was to film aerial shots over London. Popular London landmarks such as The Gherkin are among the aerial shots we filmed for the series. You can watch the aerial footage we filmed in between scenes of Series 16.
The Apprentice series 16 is now available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
Stand Up For Cancer: Celebrity Hunted
Following a two-year break, Celebrity Hunted returned to our screens in January for Series 4. Participating in Channel 4’s Stand Up for Cancer. Eight celebrities now known as fugitives were paired together. To remain undetected whilst on the run for 14 days to avoid getting tracked down by professional Hunters.
Former police officers, intelligence agents and military personnel make up the team of hunters who used their expertise to hunt down the celebrity fugitives.
The celebrities who appeared in season 4 were:
- Ollie Gareth
- Locke-Locke
- Chizzy Akudolu
- Lisa Maffia
- The Vivienne
- Chloe Veitch
- Iwan Thomas
- Richard Whitehead
Permissions requested
A requirement for this project was to submit a filming application to the National Trust. Successfully obtaining these permissions allowed us to complete the required shots by production teams. The permissions from The National Trust allowed us to film aerially above Formby Beach in Merseyside using one of our Twin Squirrels.
Our participation
For episode 6 of the series we had a hunter on board our aircraft who was coordinating with the on-ground team, in attempt to track down the fugitives. We followed and captured shots of the Huey Heli taking off and in flight as part of the production had on board hunters on route to track down the celebrity fugitives.
Our Twin Squirrel aircraft was equipped with our nose-mounted GSS C516 camera and a Sony P1 HD camera paired with a 30-300mm lens to film aerial footage of the fugitives. The camera systems were rigged to our aircraft.
Celebrity Hunted Stand Up for Cancer is available to watch on My4.
The Responder
Aerial Filming for The Responder
Written by Tony Schumacher a former Merseyside police officer. Tony used his experiences from his time as a first responder to write the gripping police thriller TV series. With first-hand accounts where good, hard-working people are being stretched beyond belief.
The Responder explores the emotional difficulties of life on the front lines, which British Policing face. Starring Martin Freeman as Chris Carson, a morally compromised first responder. Carson tackles a series of night shifts on the beat on the streets of Liverpool. Consequently, officer Carson becomes stretched to the point of mental exhaustion as a result of countless 'on-the-job' scenes. His duties require him to attend to emergency calls, which can include anything from recovering body parts from road traffic accidents to neighbour disputes. He parades across the city of Liverpool, amidst the hustle and bustle.
Along with dealing with the mentally demanding activities officer Carson encounters daily. Carson's professional life starts to influence his personal life, causing his mental health to deteriorate after many years on the force. As a result of this, his marriage suffers. As the series progresses, Chris begins to wonder what is right.
How was GB involved?
To complete the required filming shots for this project we used one of our As355 Twin-engine helicopters. Filmed with our GSS nose-mounted camera system, which we paired with our Red Epic Dragon camera and a 30-300mm lens. We used our equipment to film and collect extracts providing aerial footage for the series.
The 5 part series aired in January on BBC One and is available to watch on iPlayer.
This Time with Alan Partridge
There’s hardly a more iconic sight in aviation than a Spitfire soaring above the cliffs at Beachy Head. So we were delighted to be asked back to this historic location to film for the BBC's This Time with Alan Partridge.
The show sees Steve Coogan reprise his role as Alan Partridge, a hapless former radio presenter from Norwich. The incompetent and tactless broadcaster is given a career lifeline when he’s offered the chance to appear as a presenter on a weekly magazine show called This Time.
The fictitious show is a parody of popular daily programmes like The One Show and Good Morning Britain. In a similar format, Alan interviews guests and chats about current events. He also steps outside the studio to produce features for the show. One feature sees Alan pay tribute to the female fighter pilots from World War 2. He does this by taking a ride in the back of a modified two seater Spitfire.
“It was a privilege to climb heavenwards, until I was touching the face of God, with the very tip of my nose”
Alan Partridge
Taking off from the Goodwood Aerodrome, we followed Coogan in his Spitfire as he made his way over to Beachy Head. Once there, the real fun begins. Put through a series of high-G turns, loops and rolls, Coogan remains in character the entire time.
One key feature to the hilarity of Alan Partridge are his facial expressions. We were required to get in close to capture the detail of Coogan’s performance. This was achieved using our Shotover K1, mounted on our single squirrel, G-TVGB.
Responsible for getting these shots was aerial camera operator Jim Swanson. Flying the Airbus H125 helicopter was GB’s director and chief pilot, Will Banks.
This isn’t the first time we’ve filmed over Beachy Head, or even Spitfires over Beachy Head. We had the incredible privilege to provide our aerial filming services on the production of Spitfire: The Feature Documentary. Filming two Spitfires flying in formation with the stunning coast in the background was a phenomenal experience.
I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here 2021
The award-winning series I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here returned to Gwrych Castle for a second time in 2021, we were thrilled to be involved in one of the biggest TV events of the year.
The previous series saw a massive 11.7m viewers watch us fly in the celebrities in five helicopters for the opening episode. For the 2021 series we didn’t only film the arrival of the celebrities. This time Ant and Dec also got in on the action with a flight in their very own helicopter.
Before the show aired, the public had the chance to vote for who would take part in the first challenge. Six celebrities were chosen and then split into two teams.
Each team flew in one of our AS355s, either OLCP or VGMC. Both helicopters feature complementary paint schemes, making them perfect as matching picture ships for productions. The celebrities flew to their first challenge. And like in 2020, it was a test of how they deal with heights.
Ant and Dec, were provided with VIP treatment and flown in by our AW109SP luxury helicopter. They looked right at home in their leather seats, in sharp contrast to the conditions the celebrities were about to endure for the next three weeks.
Providing the aerial filming for the celebrities' arrival, and for Ant and Dec’s travels, was another of our twin squirrels. Mounted with our GSS C516, we filmed air-to-air in addition to flying the celebs to their destinations.
Months of preparation and hard work went into making the first episode happen it was a spectacular watch. We hope you enjoyed it. The show airs every evening at 9pm on ITV.
Ultimate Hell Week - The Professionals
One of the toughest reality TV shows around has returned to screens in Ireland. Ultimate Hell Week sees eighteen recruits put through an intense selection course that’s been put together by former members of Ireland’s Special Forces. This time, it’s the turn of the professionals. And taking on this daunting course are some of Ireland’s most well-known faces from the world of sport and entertainment.
Over five days, they will endure rigorous physical and mental tests. Pushed well out of their comfort zone, each recruit will have to complete cold-water events, height tests, claustrophobic challenges and interrogation, alongside demanding trials of strength, stamina and determination.
GB Helicopters was brought in to help carry out the cold-water events and height tests. Producing the incredible footage of the stunts, was drone operator Lec Park.
First up was the ‘Heli Jump’. We performed this stunt recently for Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins and on numerous Bear Grylls productions.
Flying low and fast over the waters near Cork, two recruits sit nervously in the back. Accompanying them in the cabin is their course instructor and a camera operator. Ensuring there’s unrestricted movement in the back, both the rear and co-pilot seats have been removed, as have the doors on one side. The camera operator now has the freedom to perfectly capture the raw emotions of each recruit in anticipation of their jump into the cold waters.
The second stunt we carried out is one of our favourites, the ‘Long Line’. Officially termed ‘Human External Cargo’, this stunt involves one or two people being suspended on a long line underneath the helicopter. It is another stunt we’ve done frequently with Bear Grylls. It’s also how we made Harry Styles fly in the music video for his hit single Sign of the Times. No CGI required.
For Ultimate Hell Week, this was performed around the spectacular coastline and cliffs of Mizen Head. We began by flying along the coast before sweeping up to a clifftop, one the recruits had just climbed up. Coming to a hover overhead, two of the recruits were carefully secured to the line below. Once safely attached, we lifted them over the edge of the cliff and out towards the ocean. The incredible vistas making this stunt all the more spectacular. The recruits were then dropped off further down the coast, ready for their next challenge.
For those of you in Ireland, you can watch the whole series on RTE Player.
To find out how these thrilling scenes could be part of your next production, get in touch on 0800 030 4105 or at ops@gbconcierge.co.uk.
Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins
Once again we find ourselves hovering over the waters just off the Isle of Raasay. This time, Ore Oduba is onboard, carefully perched on the skid of our hovering helicopter. Facing the instructor inside the aircraft, he’s given his instructions on how to perform the dive into the sea...backwards...from 20 ft. He crosses his arms over his chest, and lets himself fall blindly backwards towards the water below. This is no Strictly Come Dancing.
He is one of the 12 new recruits for the latest series of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins.
One by one each contestant is picked up from the island and taken to the drop point. They are flown in low and fast before quickly coming to a hover, simulating a rapid military insertion. They climb out of the helicopter and onto the skid, before psyching themselves up and blindly dropping into the sea.
The stunt would be carried out in our AS355N twin-squirrel helicopter, flown by GB Helicopters Director and Chief Pilot Will Banks.
As with all our stunt work, special permissions from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) were required. We always work closely with the CAA when carrying out aerial stunt work, and our continued experience and skill in performing stunts for film and TV productions helped us gain this permission.
The third series of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins started on Channel 4 on 29th August 2021 and is on at 9PM on Sundays. If you want to catch up on the action, you can do so on All 4.
Ambulance - Series 7
Sweeping down the River Mersey, the iconic Royal Liver Building comes into frame. The sun is rising behind it, bringing an end to a night of frantic activity across the city. Paramedics have been racing to people in need, but their work isn’t done, and the emergencies keep coming. It’s just another 24-hours for the North West Ambulance Service. We were there in the sky above to follow the drama for the seventh series of the BBC’s factual series, Ambulance.
The new series shows the immense challenges faced by the North West Ambulance Service during the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. Taking the viewer to heart of the NHS are the courageous frontline paramedics, as they respond to emergencies across the North West.
Series seven will concentrate in and around the cities of Liverpool and Blackpool. Covering an area of more than 5,400 square miles, they respond to an average 4,000 emergency calls every day. It shows in detail the harsh reality of the shifts of the call-handlers and ambulance dispatchers as they make decisions in the highly pressurised environment of the control room.
While the crews are accompanied by the production team on the ground, we provide a sense of scale from above. Capturing wide aerial shots of the city and iconic landmarks to close tracking shots of the emergency vehicles as they hurtle through the city.
Equipment
For this project we flew one of our AS355NP’s rigged with our GSS C516 gyroscopic camera system. For shooting during the day, we used our RED Epic Dragon camera with the Canon 30-300mm telephoto lens. At night, we switched to the Sony P1.
Produced by Dragonfly Television and the BBC, it was first broadcast on BBC One in 2016. Since then it has proved to be very successful, winning a BAFTA for 'Best Factual Series' in 2018 and receiving several National Television Award nominations.
Helicopter ER
Helicopter ER takes you inside the hi-tech cabin of Helimed 98 & 99 of the high-speed, high-stakes world of a rapid response air emergency service. The programme follows the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, who cover 4 million acres and a population of approximately 5 million as they respond to real and extreme emergencies throughout Yorkshire. This gives everyone watching an insight into the amazing air ambulance team, the outstanding doctors and the paramedics that save lives on a daily basis.
Our Airbus AS355 twin-squirrel helicopter, carried out the filming using our GSS C516 camera system. Due to the unpredictable time of day an emergency can happen, we film both day and night shoots. Filming takes place with the Red Epic Dragon during the day and the ARRI Alexa Mini or Sony P1 at night, all fitted with a 30-300 Canon lens.
Following in close proximity to the air ambulance as it lands and takes off from various sites around Yorkshire, including helipads at hospitals, is a key part of the filming for Helicopter ER. The CAA have granted us a long-term certificate for low-level flying permission, which is perfect for productions as it enables us to get closer to the action.
Created by AirTv, Helicopter ER is broadcast on the Discovery Networks channel, Really. The latest series, 6, aired back in January 2021 and is available to watch on the Discovery+ website.
Warbird Workshop
Warbird Workshop has returned for a second series for the UKTV channel, Yesterday. Following a group of engineers and aviators as they endeavour to restore some of the most historic warplanes ever to grace our skies.
Produced by Air TV, the first episode of the new series features a WWII Hawker Hurricane. Modified into the world’s only two-seater version of the aircraft. After months of painstaking restoration work, the experienced warbird pilot Anna Walker, flew over the countryside around Biggin Hill with its first passenger. We followed in our AS355 helicopter, equipped with our GSS camera system, capturing the magnificent machine’s return to the skies.
We then had the privilege of filming Guy Martin training and flying this wonderful machine for his new two-part series, Guy Martin's Battle of Britain. The show would see Guy undergo similar training to RAF pilots before the Battle of Britain.
The Hawker Hurricane is now available for you to experience for yourself down at Biggin Hill. With flight times ranging from 30 to 75 minutes, you can feel the raw power of a historic WWII fighter plane and even take the controls! (if the pilot allows it). You can read more about this on their website.
The fourth episode features the restoration of a 1930’s Morane-Saulnier MS.315. However, it ran out of fuel resulting in an emergency landing on a pebble beach. The plane was taken to a wartime bomber base in Lincolnshire and after the restoration was completed, we were there to film its first 40 minutes test flight.
You can watch the first and second series on the UKTV website.
Guy Martin: Battle of Britain
Originally known for his successful motorcycle racing career, Guy Martin has also become a talented television presenter. Before he retired from professional racing, he was already involved in several documentaries revolving around the world of engineering, racing and aviation.
The 39-year-old from Grimsby was named after Guy Gibson, a distinguished RAF bomber pilot who became the first Commanding Officer of No. 617 Squadron. This squadron led the famous “Dam Busters” raid during WWII, so it is no surprise that he already has a couple of documentaries involving military aircraft. Those being Guy Martin’s Spitfire and Guy Martin: Last Flight of the Vulcan Bomber.
Despite the chaos going on in the world last year, he managed to put together a new ambitious project: Guy Martin’s Battle of Britain. The programme was to see Guy learn to fly a WWII Hurricane against a pursuing enemy aircraft.
Documentaries like this simply cannot be made without aerial filming. Over the years we have become renowned for capturing military aircraft in flight. Our first project filming historical warbirds was the Hollywood blockbuster Dunkirk. Since then, we have worked on some other huge projects such as Spitfire: The Feature Documentary and its upcoming sequel, Lancaster. We have also filmed several episodes of Warbird Workshop and the departure of the Silver Spitfire out of Goodwood, as it started its flight around the world.
Working with warbirds is something we absolutely love doing. So, when we were approached to provide the aerial filming for this project, we jumped at the chance. Capable of a higher top speed, our H125 helicopter would provide the platform for our GSS C516 gyro-stabilised system and Sony P1 camera with a Fujinon 42x lens. This full HD and lightweight setup would be controlled by our expert camera operator Mike Parker.
Flying out of the very familiar Biggin Hill, we would be following and filming two aircraft. The role of the enemy aircraft would be filled by a Buchon ME109 that is carefully and diligently maintained by The Aircraft Restoration Company. It would be flown by its owner, John Romain. Guy Martin would have the chance to fly in the only two-seat Hurricane in the world. The 1942 Hawker Hurricane IIB would be flown by the hugely experienced and talented pilot, Anna Walker. The aircraft is owned and operated by The Heritage Flight at Biggin Hill.
With perfect weather over the former RAF WWII airbase, we took to the air and started filming the Hurricane as it started its engine and taxied to the runway. Once in position and ready to go, Anna throttled-up and the Hurricane tore off down the tarmac. Alongside in the H125, pilot Will Banks put the nose down and accelerated to keep up with the classic warbird. Running perfectly next to the Hurricane, its wheels gently lifted off the ground before it accelerated beyond our top speed.
Once all the aircraft systems checked out, Will rendezvoused with the Hurricane and we began filming the close ups. Flying in close formation at 2,000 ft over Sevenoaks, Kent, we filmed shots of the Hurricane performing various manoeuvres and captured Guy Martin trying his hands at the controls.
As we entered the evening golden hour, Anna and Guy were joined by John in the “enemy” Buchon ME109. Trailing behind the Hurricane, John would now ‘engage’, and Guy would try to lose the Buchon from his tail. The two warbirds accelerated off into the distance as Guy tried to evade and escape the pursuing enemy. They began a dance in the sky, gaining altitude before diving below us, all while Will and Mike filmed from a distance, keeping them both in frame.
When the chase was over and we had completed the shot list, Will followed Guy back to Biggin Hill. With the sun going down, we took advantage of the brilliant light to capture the Hurricane in the warm evening glow. Will then be positioned low at the far end of the runway to capture the Hurricane gracefully touching down to finish off a successful shoot.
Aerial Filming for the Hunted - Series 5
Ten ordinary people are blindfolded, bundled in a van, and dropped off in an unknown location. Their task is simple, evade capture for 25 days, and win £100,000. They are being hunted by a team of former and serving police, intelligence personnel, on-foot teams, and helicopters. Using the same powers used by real security services, their job is to track down and capture the ten fugitives.
Filming for the Hunted is unlike any other programme we shoot for. The fugitive’s drop-off and extraction locations are known to us in advance, and are filmed like any other TV project. However, due to the nature of the show, any additional filming we do depends entirely on where the fugitives flee to, how they get there and how close the hunters get.
Outside of the opening and final sequences to the series, we’re mainly on hand to assist the hunters in apprehending the fugitives. The contestants can run and hide anywhere in the country, and most of the time, even the fugitives don’t have a set plan of where they’re headed. Because of this, the call for shooting some sequences can come very late, sometimes just the night before. This is where our large fleet of H125 and AS355 helicopters comes in. While we normally have at least one helicopter reserved for aerial filming work, any of our seven single and twin-squirrels can be rigged with our GSS C516 camera system.
Nearing the end of series 5, the location of the extraction point is revealed to the fugitives. This year the remaining contestants had to reach a harbour in Anglesey. A boat would be there waiting to help them complete their escape and hand them £100,000. This information is kept from the hunters, but they’re hot on the heels of the fugitives and so get a rough idea of where they’re headed. With the end in sight, we’re back in the air and aiding the hunters. In our AS355N helicopter, G-CMRA, we pick up renowned hunter Karl Beverly, and race towards Anglesey. After spotting the escape boat that the fugitives are heading towards, we quickly land nearby so Karl can jump out to pursue on foot. We get back in the air to film the dramatic finale as the remaining fugitives attempt to make their escape.
Filming for the Hunted is always an adventure and we look forward to each series to see how our work played out in helping capture the fugitives. The programme is created by Shine TV and is aired on Channel 4.
Helicopter Stunt Work with Bear Grylls
Over the last 15 years, Bear Grylls has produced a whole host of survival and adventure programmes. Pitting himself against the elements for our entertainment, he quickly grew in popularity. This allowed him to start taking some the world’s most famous people and placing them well outside their comfort zone.
His hit US show, Running Wild with Bear Grylls would see him challenge some of the worlds most famous actors and actresses to perform dangerous stunts. From Zac Efron, Channing Tatum, and Ben Stiller, to the then sitting President of the United States, Barak Obama.
For series two, we would assist Bear in putting American actor Michael B. Jordan through his paces in the Welsh Highlands. Flying them both out over the sea in our AS355 Twin Squirrel helicopter, Michael and Bear would rappel out of the hovering aircraft, and then drop into the water before having to swim to the shore.
In series three, in a remote part of Wales, we would lift a jet ski with a twin-squirrel and drop it in the sea for Spice Girl Mel B to swim out to in her final challenge. Earlier in the episode she had to assist Bear with some controversial pain relief, which we will leave for you to look up!
Adventure in the UK
Following its success in the US, Bear would produce a UK version featuring a selection of famous Brits called Bear’s Mission With…. While most of Bear’s programmes see him travel all over the world, this one would take place solely in the UK. We are always eager to get involved when Bear shoots in the UK, so when the opportunity to feature in all five episodes came to us, we jumped at it.
First up was the two-time world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua. Being a world class professional athlete, Bear would certainly have his work cut out giving the boxer a challenge. Anthony would be tasked with climbing Commando Ridge in Cornwall. Getting him to the bottom of this breath-taking cliffside is where we came in. With a rope ladder attached to the belly of our AS355 helicopter, and Bear and Anthony attached to the end of it, we flew them both to the base of the ridge. From there they could tackle the former WWII Commando training ground.
That’s a new one…
Next up was actor and comedian, Rob Brydon. This one started off like any other project. Our task was to fly Rob and Bear over an ice-cold lake, where they both would then jump out of our hovering helicopter into the freezing water below. Nothing out of the ordinary there. However, later in the episode, Rob and Bear spy a sheep trapped in a quarry. After carefully corralling the sheep and fitting it with a harness, we were called in to lift it out to safety. This was definitely a new one for us. While technically it was no different from any other long line work we’ve done, the pilot is normally in constant communication with the person on the end of the line. But not this time.
The third episode would feature the legendary Star Wars and Harry Potter actor Warwick Davis. For his stunt he was fitted with a safety harness before being hooked to the long line attached to our helicopter. We then lifted him into the sky, much like we did with Harry Styles, to finish off the episode.
For the final episode in the Bear’s Mission With… series, England Football Manager Gareth Southgate was to be put through his paces. Taking place in Dartmoor, we flew Bear and Gareth to a remote location in the national park, where he would then rappel out of our hovering helicopter, some 20ft off the ground.
One of Bear Gyrlls’ most recent survival programmes was Netflix’s You vs Wild. The interactive series would see him take on a range of missions where the viewer gets to decide which routes he takes along the way. After we drop Bear off on a beach in Wales, his adventure begins, and you start deciding his actions. Part way through the episode we help extract Bear with a long line stunt. But in order to see this you’ll have to make some wrong decisions and put him in harm’s way.
Outside of his TV programmes we also worked with Bear for the launch of the new Land Rover Discovery. This event saw him rappel out of our hovering helicopter onto the top of a small replica of Tower Bridge made from Lego. Rappels require expert precision while keeping the helicopter as still as possible in a hover. This stunt was made all the more difficult by taking place at night. You can see a small clip of this stunt here.
Most recently we performed a skydive stunt with Bear and his son Jesse for his YouTube channel. You can read more about this stunt here. Our growing experience and safety record is what has kept Bear Grylls coming back to us time and time again. Helicopter stunt work is something we love doing and you can read more about our service here.
Bear Grylls: Skydive with a Twist
Bear Grylls has been entertaining us with his survival challenges and hair-raising stunts for over 15 years. In that time, he has produced a wide range of adventure programmes where he pits himself, and often celebrities, against the elements.
Those celebrities are often challenged to perform the very same stunts Bear is known for, and a lot of those have involved the use of a helicopter. Our unique skills and experience at providing helicopter stunts have led to us to have become a regular appearance over the years. These include rappelling Michael B Jordon into the sea and rescuing a sheep out of a quarry with Rob Brydon.
In September he came to us with something new, he wanted to skydive out of one of our helicopters at 10,000 ft. In true Bear Grylls fashion, this wasn’t going to be enough, to add an extra level of jeopardy to the challenge, he wanted to climb down out of the helicopter and hang from the skids. He planned to not do this alone; his son Jesse would be joining him in the stunt.
For most people this would but enough, but not for Bear. Hanging off the bottom of a helicopter 10,000 ft in the air simply would not be dangerous enough for the British adventurer. So, in preparation for the jump, he challenged Jesse to pack his parachute for him. Blindfolded! Packing someone else’s chute is a massive responsibility and to do so blindfolded, well, that’s just Bear Grylls for you.
After Jesse had packed Bear’s parachute, they joined Will Banks at our H125 (G-TVGB) and got ready to lift. They began the climb up to 10,000 ft where Will brought the helicopter to a hover ready for the skydive.
Capable of a maximum altitude of 23,000 ft (7,010 m), the H125 has no trouble getting to this altitude. However, in 2005, it broke the world record for the highest altitude landing and take-off at 29,029 ft (8,848 m) on Mount Everest.
Sliding open the door, Bear climbed down out of the helicopter while Will kept the aircraft steady, and then lowered himself further to hang off the skid. He was shortly followed by Jesse before they both let go and hurtled towards the ground.
A minute of freefall later and Bear’s parachute opened without a hitch, as did Jesse’s. But Bear’s challenge wasn’t over just yet. There had to be a winner in this stunt, and that would be whoever landed closer to a target in a nearby field. Landing much closer to the target, Jesse was the clear winner, leading Bear to cheat by running to the marker with his parachute still deployed.
Performing this skydive stunt required us to be granted special permission from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). As with all our stunt work, we always ensure we have the appropriate permissions from the CAA before the project begins.
Full Marks from Achilles
We are delighted to announce that for the fourth year running, we have achieved full marks with a perfect 100% score on our Health & Safety, Environmental, Quality and CSR Practices and Procedures. The assessment, conducted by Achilles, took place over two days and investigated every aspect of our practices and procedures related to our helicopter operations.
Our Flight Operations Compliance Manager, Abi Hensby, works incredibly hard every year to ensure that we operate at the highest standards possible for our industry and we are very proud of our exemplary record.
These practices and procedures are constantly evaluated and amended as the industry evolves. They are in place not only to help protect the helicopter pilot, crew and passengers, but also to guarantee we deliver the most comprehensive service that is of the utmost quality.
Going Further
Our efforts to improve our services do not stop here. We have worked hard to attain three ISO standards set out by the International Organisation for Standardisation. These include:
- ISO 9001:2015 - for Quality Management Systems
- ISO 14001:2015 - for Environmental Management Systems
- BS OHSAS 18001: 2007 - the British standard for occupational health and safety management
These standards are not necessary to carry out the wide variety of work we provide. However, they are something we have endeavoured to achieve to assist us in delivering a world-class service. These standards contribute from the well-being of the office staff and ground crew to the pilots and aircraft. And this applies across our three sectors of work: helicopter charter, aerial filming and utility works.
Following these advancements, 2021 will see us implement a Carbon Neutral policy to help offset our impact on the environment. This is an important issue that will affect every aspect of our lives. It is vital that we do more to measure the effect we have on the environment. More information on this will follow later in the year.
Formation Flying for I'm A Celebrity
The first episode of this year’s I’m a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here has finally hit our screens. We are delighted to have been an instrumental part of it. Months of preparation and planning have gone into carrying out a spectacular opening sequence for one of the UK’s biggest TV shows of this year.
Due to this year’s ongoing situation. It was not possible for the show to take place in its usual location of Murwillumbah, New South Wales. Its new home for 2020 would be Gwrych Castle in North Wales.
The opening episode was viewed by a massive 11.7m viewers. Usually, it features half the celebrities making a grand entrance into camp, and this year’s show would be no different. So, ITV went looking for five helicopters for the celebrities and another one to film them. As one of the few aerial filming companies in the country with this number of aircraft, we were ideally suited to fill this role. With all the aircraft and filming equipment in-house, production had the confidence that we could provide everything required without having to rely on third parties.
The show required that the helicopters carrying the celebrities were to be twin-engine, and black. With six of our ten aircraft being twin-squirrel AS355’s, this was fine. However, only one is currently completely black, and that’s G-CMRA. So, in order to meet this requirement, we had four of our helicopters painted black over two days (G-LINE, G-DCAM, G-OLCP & G-VGMC).
Finally, we nailed down the shot list and formations we would be flying to achieve them. Our pilots have a wealth of experience flying in formation with another aircraft when aerial filming but flying as part of a five-aircraft formation was going to be a new experience for a few of them. However, the principals behind this remain the same; so there was little doubt that they’d all excel at the task.
After all the preparation and painting was complete, it was time for the fun part, a practice flight. From our base in Cheshire we got all the pilots, camera operators and ground crew together and lined up the aircraft. Six helicopters, all rotors running and engines roaring, took to the skies in what was an epic display of machines and noise. The I’m A Celebrity production team were going to be in for a treat.
Huge thanks to drone operations Lec Park & Andy L for this video
Next up was rehearsal day, one week prior to showtime. The weather could not have been better for a day in mid-July, let alone in November. Once again, six helicopters took to the skies. Will Banks flying the camera ship (G-TVGB) with DoP Mike Parker. The duo left base armed with the GSS C516 and the Sony P1. They headed to Snowdonia to get shots of the sunrise over the Welsh mountains. Completely still conditions gave perfect views and crystal-clear reflections from the lakes dotted around the valleys.
The first formation flights would take place before heading north and flying over Gwrych Castle and Abergele. The five twin squirrels arrived later, and this caused quite a stir. Reports of helicopters over the I’m A Celebrity castle were everywhere! Photos and videos of us making it to social media and news sites. Speculation went into overdrive and there was a noticeable spike in excitement surrounding the preparations for the show.
The rehearsal had gone perfectly and everyone was thrilled with the results. We now had to do it all over again the following week, on Friday the 13th, and the weather was looking awful. Anxiety levels were rising as the day approached and the weather hadn’t improved. Then, two days before the shoot, the weather looked to be in our favour. Twelve hours later however, it was back to wind and rain. But with less than 18 hours to go, the weather decided to behave and gave us a weather window of clear blue skies for the shoot. For two days, one week apart, in November, in the Welsh mountains, we had nearly identical weather.
Then came the big day. With the pilots final briefing the night before and a good night’s rest, they were ready to head off. Once again Will and Mike left early to get shots of the sun rising over North Wales, while the main fleet took off to a secret location, ready for the celebrities to arrive. Landing at the site, lined up nose to tail, they waited for this year’s (un)lucky contestants to appear.
One at a time, the blindfolded celebrities where loaded into a helicopter, which then took off and made its way to our camera ship. As each helicopter joined they formed up to allow the celebrities to see each other for the first time. Once all of them were onboard and all six helicopters formed up, they made their way through Wales and Snowdonia. We flew through gorgeous valleys, above lakes and over mountain peaks in various formations. Allowing us to shoot stunning footage as we flew.
The Celebrities were dropped off at a remote location, going straight into their first task. We returned to base for a debrief.
All that was left to do now was put the aircraft away and strip away the paint. While we wait until Sunday to see the results.
Proud to Fly for Pride of Britain
The 2020 Pride of Britain Awards were always going to be a special one. In what has been the most challenging year for us all, people up and down the country stepped up to bring positivity and bravery to a dire situation.
Hosted by Carol Vorderman, the ceremony honours those who have acted bravely or extraordinarily in challenging situations. Usually the event takes place at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, this year however, the show would take place outside London's Royal Hospital Chelsea. With no audience and just Carol Vorderman hosting the ceremony, celebrities were deployed around the country to surprise and present the awards to the recipients.
For the opening sequence of the award ceremony, we were tasked with flying Carol into London in our AW109SP helicopter. On her journey through London we hovered over hospitals and police stations to pay tribute to those in the emergency services. These fantastic people have soldiered on through everything that has happened this year while putting themselves at risk.
As Carol made her way over the various landmarks of England’s capital, we filmed from our London based AS355 twin-squirrel, G-LINE. Equipped with our GSS C516 and Sony P1 camera, we captured gorgeous footage of our aircraft as it flew over the city and along the River Thames. Working closely with the ITV production team we spent over an hour and half completing the full shot list for the awards opener.
We returned to skies above London a few days later, this time at night to film the BT Tower. The names of those being honoured appeared one by one on the towers 360° LED display for all of London to see. This was only possible as we operated our Day/Night VFR aircraft along with our IFR capable aircraft. Our pilots are also night rated combined with extensive experience flying at night.
Planning for the shoot took place over the weeks prior along with us being granted various permissions to fly and film over London. This included obtaining non-standard flight numbers from NATS that allowed us to access the controlled airspace over the city.
With Carol Vorderman safely at her destination and all the footage in the bag, it was time to return to base and get ready for our next ITV project, I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here.
Filming for Heathrow: Britain's Busiest Airport
At the start this year, before the world became a very different place. We were granted unprecedented access to the UK’s busiest airport to film for ITV’s Heathrow: Britain’s Busiest Airport. For its sixth series, we gained permission to fly lower and closer to passenger jets than in any previous series.
The decision to allow us to hover tens of feet over the taxiways of one of the busiest airports in the world was not one that was taken lightly. Months of planning, phone calls and meetings took place in preparation for just two days of filming. We had to demonstrate that we were not only capable of capturing the desired footage, but to do so with complete safety.
The stakes were high. The consequences of an accident could be catastrophic. However, given the low altitude we would be flying at, collisions were a risk. Risk factors included taxiing aircraft and even airport service vehicles going about their daily routines. While these scenarios were very unlikely, many other minor incidents could still have had a severe knock-on effect. Near misses or disrupting the flow of traffic around the airport could lead to significant delays. Delays cost airlines thousands of pounds and disrupt passengers' travel plans.
Any of those would have obviously been completely unacceptable, so along with diligent planning beforehand, came constant communication between Will and air traffic control during the shoot. Every aircraft arriving and departing were informed of our presence. As our aircraft carefully manoeuvred its way around the taxiways. We were informed of the aircraft around us as we updated them on our actions.
So, there was a lot going on for pilot Will Banks. Communicating with air traffic, keeping complete situational awareness of other aircraft and vehicles around the helicopter, 20ft above the tarmac, all while talking to Mike the camera operator and positioning to get the shots.
The shot list for this project was extensive. And with only a small window of time to acquire them, the pressure was on. Fitted with the GSS C516, RED Epic Dragon and a 30-300mm lens, Mike and Will took G-TVGB and went about capturing everything from wide shots of the airport to closeups of pilots in their cockpits. But with this aerial filming project, there were no staged shots or events to capture. It was entirely on Will and Mike to find the shots they needed.
The result was nearly five hours of stunning footage that was to be used throughout the 12-episode series.
Heathrow: Britain's Busiest Airport is available to watch on ITVX.
That time we dangled Harry Styles out of a helicopter
It’s not every day we get to suspend an A-list celebrity off
the bottom of a helicopter. But back in 2017, high above the Isle of Skye,
that’s exactly what we did.
The release of Harry Styles’ new single last week got us thinking about the music video we played a key role in creating for him. For the then 23-year-olds debut solo single, 'Sign of the Times', we were approached with an unusual request; "Can you make him fly?"
We had considerable experience with people abseiling out of our helicopters, however, this had more similarities with our long line lifting work. Transporting heavy loads to hard-to-reach locations. So this would be a first doing this with a human.
For the video, Harry Styles was to soar through the sky, above lush forests and stunning mountains. The former One Direction star was fitted with a harness hidden underneath a large overcoat. A hole cut into the back allowed the line to connect to the harness. The other end is then securely attached to the belly of the helicopter. When it came to flying him through the air, it was relatively simple. Making him run on water, however, required excellent precision and skill.
Two Birds with one Styles
We provided both helicopters for the shoot, which was directed by Yoann Lemoine. One to carry Styles through the air and the other to film it. The two AS355's worked in unison to produce some truly beautiful shots. Flown by GB Helicopters Director Will Banks and pilot Hugh Williams, Banks had the arguably better task of flying Harry, while Williams flew the camera ship. Having all the crew from the same team can make a massive difference to a production. Communication and co-ordination are key to an effective aerial filming unit. And a team that knows each other well, produces better shots on fewer takes.
Obviously safety for this project was of the highest priority. Nothing would have taken place if the risks were deemed too high. All equipment, including the helicopter, was thoroughly inspected beforehand and communication between, pilots, ground crew and Harry was paramount. Not just to make sure Styles’ safety was never compromised, but also to achieve the desired shots.
With no green screen and CGI being used (other than to remove the line and harness), it meant that to achieve some of the shots for the video, Styles was flown to a height of around 1,500ft. This might have been a problem, however Harry appeared to thoroughly enjoy the experience. Something which is evident in parts of the video.
The music video would go on to win British Artist Video of the Year at the 2018 Brit Awards and Best Music Video at the 2018 iHeartRadio Music Awards. It was also nominated for Best Pop Video and Best Visual Effects at the 2017 MTV Video Music Awards.
You can find more information about our aerial filming services here.
Filming the ROLEX Fastnet Boat Race
A record 388 starters took part in this years ROLEX Fastnet
race, and we were there to capture the action.
The 48th edition of the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s Rolex Fastnet Race saw records tumble as unusual winds lead to dramatic racing. The biennial offshore boat race eventually crowned the overall IRC Z winner as US team Wizard. This spelt the end of a French winning streak going back to 2013. Meanwhile Maxi Edmond de Rothschild past Francois Gabart’s MACIF in a nail biting finish, winning by just 58 seconds in the open multihull class.
This year's race saw the first outing of our new helicopter G-TVGB. The Airbus H125 was fitted with the Cineflex V14 camera system and flown by GB Helicopters owner Will Banks. Heavy weather conditions made for some challenging flying but also led to spectacular footage. In particular as the boats approached the iconic Fastnet Rock, dark and stormy weather provided some of the most dramatic shots of the race. Shortly after the weather relented and the skies cleared to produce a brilliant sunset, finishing off a thrilling second day.
Over the three days the H125 excelled in its aerial filming role, making light work of the difficult weather conditions. G-TVGB is set to take on more aerial filming and utility work in the coming months. It is also available for charter flights in between these jobs so please enquire about its availability.
We've put together a short video to show you the work we did on this project. We hope you enjoy it!
Visit our aerial filming page or contact our operations team on 0800 030 4105. You can email us on ops@gbconcierge.co.uk to speak to our operations team.
The Spitfire - The BC Article
We recently discovered a fantastic article “Reach for the Sky” written in The Bristish Cinematographer Magazine. Regarding John Dibbs and the making of the Spitfire feature.
Spitfire is a feature film documentary of the history of the spitfire and the people who have flown the machine over its lifetime. We were honoured to be part of such an exciting project. Seeing our work on the big screens as well as working alongside the beautiful aircraft.
The air-to-air scenes were captured on our GSS C516 with the Red Epic Dragon and 50-1000 Canon lens.
To read the full article in The British Cinematographer click here.
If you would like to request any further information on the aerial camera system or aerial filming please do not hesitate to contact our operations team on ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or call 0800 030 4105.
Ambulance Series 4
We are delighted to reveal another
exciting aerial filming project that we have had the pleasure on working on
with Dragonfly Film and TV Productions, for documentary series Ambulance Series 4.
Ambulance is a BAFTA Award-winning
British documentary series that follows the Ambulance Services. Series 4 takes a detailed look at day-to-day emergency
responses paramedics attend in the North West as well as a revealing insight
from highly pressurised control rooms to the crews on the street.
WHAT ROLE DID GB HELICOPTERS PLAY IN THE MAKING?
Our operational task
throughout the series was to provide aerial overviews as well as tracking
emergency response vehicles on major incidents throughout the North West, with
the main content captured around the Manchester area.
Combined with one of
our ultra high definition camera systems we were able to fly in convoy with a
number of vehicles and aircraft to achieve the shots required by production. Holding
a long-term low-level flying permission that allows us to achieve these dynamic
aerial footage sequences in Ultra High Definition.
WHAT CAMERA SYSTEM AND AIRCRAFT WAS USED?
All aerial filming was captured on the state-of-the-art GSS C516 nose mounted camera system, which was configured with our Red Epic Dragon, and 30-300 Canon lens. The 30-300 lens was recommended by our aerial cinematographer for the shoot due to the variety of shots production were looking to achieve; including night time scenes.
All filming supplied by ourselves was conducted on an AS355 twin-engine aircraft, which has the correct safety performance and parameters that allow us to fly around the city centre and over built up areas.
Shooting for the series took place back in August 2018 and the series is currently being aired on BBC One.
If you would like to request further information, please do not hesitate to contact our operations team on ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or call 0800 030 4105.
The Hunted Series 4
The hunted is a reality TV series produced by Shine TV where you will see ten ordinary members of the public go on the run, trying to completely drop off the grid for up to 25 days in the chance of winning a cash prize. They will have limited financial resources and must do whatever they can to maintain a low profile against the hunters who will be using every trick in the book to track, find and catch them.
Our task throughout the series was to provide multiple aircraft for the air-to-air footage and aerial views. Using one of our AS355 twin squirrel helicopters we were able to help the hunters as one of their many ways used to track and follow the contestants.
Series 4 aired on 10th January 2019 staring with an audacious speedboat chase through Liverpool docks, as the series progresses you will see exciting vehicle and foot chases while they are on the run.
What Camera system was used?
All the aerial footage was captured with the GSS C516 and Red Epic Dragon camera. This system is renowned for its unprecedented UHD quality when supported with the 50-1000mm Cine lens. The nose mounted camera system was rigged to one of our AS355 twin squirrel aircraft.
Where there any permissions involved?
At GB Helicopters we hold a low-level flying permission which allows us to track and vehicles and people closely achieving the shots required by production teams. As we were flying over Liverpool we liaised with Liverpool air traffic control as we were in their zone.
How do I find out if any permissions are needed for my production?
We understand that each production is completely unique. To discuss what tasks are achievable or simply if you would like any more information on helicopter aerial filming or the camera systems available for TV and Film, please do not hesitate to contact our operations team on ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or calling 0800 030 4105
999 Rescue Squad Series 2
999 Rescue Squad Series 2
We are delighted to reveal another exciting aerial filming project that we have had the pleasure on working on with Air Television, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and Ambulance Services.
999 Rescue Squad series 1 and 2 – Is a landmark UKTV original documentary series, where Air Television go behind-the-scenes of HART, The Yorkshire Ambulance Service’s ‘Hazardous Area Response Team”. One of the 15 specialist medical units set up after 7/7 London bombings. Providing unprecedented access, viewers can witness first hand the camaraderie and courage of the men and women who risk their lives to save ours.
What role did GB Helicopters play in the making?
Our operational task throughout the series was to provide air-to-air footage, aerial overviews as well as tracking emergency response vehicles on major incidents.
Holding a long-term low-level flying permission that allows us to achieve dynamic aerial footage in Ultra High Definition throughout the UK. Combined with one of our ultra high definition camera systems we were able to fly in convoy with a number of vehicles and aircraft to achieve the shots required by production.
What camera system and aircraft was used?
All aerial filming was captured on the state-of-the-art GSS C516 nose mounted camera system, which was configured with our Red Epic Dragon, and 50-1000 Canon lens. The system was rigged to one of our AS355 twin-engine aircraft.
When is the series Airing?
Shooting for the series took place back in October 2018 and the series is currently being aired on Channel W.
Every Tuesday, between the 8th January to the 12th March 2019, at 22:00.
If you would like to request any further information on the aerial camera systems available, or aerial filming availability and bookings please do not hesitate to contact our operations team on ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or call 0800 030 4105.
Photography Acknowledgements
Photographer Acknowledgements
After months of hard work, we are delighted to announce the launch of our brand-new website. Our goal with this new improved website is to provide our visitors with an easier way to learn about GB Helicopters and all our services.
This is the beginning of an exciting phase where we will be constantly updating and adding lots of content including all the exciting projects undertaken by GB past and present.
Our new website is very image-based to showcase all the jobs we have completed, this website could not have been possible without all the stunning pictures of our aircraft. We would like to make a special mention and acknowledgements to some of the creative professional and amateur photographers that have let us use the fantastic photographs they have taken.
Take a l
Photographers
Ainhoa Sanchez
Brian Nicholas
Callum Goodwin
Dave - CVT Wings
Dean Cranston - Fameflynet
Jesús Renedo
John Mason
Marc De Groot
Mark Mockridge
Martin Uzzell
Matthew Sudol
Paul Beale
Paul Bunch
Pete Brown
Richard Pardon
Thomas Henburrow
Wallace Shackleton
These are just some of the photographs used to create our website but we are always updating and would love you to send any photos through to marketing@gbconcierge.co.uk if you are a photographer or just have a passion for aviation.
After a busy period of planning, designing, developing and testing we are delighted that it is now ready. We hope you like the fresh modern design which should allow you to find all the information you require quickly and easily.
If you require any more information about our business simply contact our operations team for our bespoke prices, availability and bookings, by telephone on 0800 030 4105 or via email on ops@gbconcierge.co.uk
Paint schemes for productions
As a large sector of our business, we often get aerial filming requests from production companies but occasionally we are contacted to solely be a picture ship (to be used as props for various productions from TV through to feature film).
On a recent project we were contacted by a local production company who were creating an advert in line with the World Cup, they were specifically looking for a high-spec AW109 but with an unusual request… it had to be green! As many of you may already be aware green helicopters are few and far between, especially when specific aircraft types are requested too.
The production company had asked if there would be a chance of wrapping the aircraft or even temporary painting! Luckily we had the perfect painting contact that we have previously worked with on Transformers 5 (when one of our As355’s was painted matte black and had prop machine guns attached) and we were extremely happy with the finish and professionalism.
The paint used is a specialist aircraft paint that is waterproof but easy to remove without damaging the normal paint scheme. This allows us to customise any of our fleet to a client’s request or for specialised shoots. Other helicopter wraps and colour transformations include Transformers 5, the Nike Magista launch and Worldeez toy launch.
After a quick call around checking availability and calculations, our operations team were able to get back to the clients request. Contracts were signed and artwork visuals supplied and the painting commenced transforming our AW109SP into a green machine ready for the shoot.
The painting took one day to mark up and a day to paint and the results were amazing! We had also contacted our regular vinyl wrapping company to supply the branded aspects of the design, which were applied when the paint had dried.
Once complete we were ready to go..
If you are a production company looking for a specific aircraft colour or graphics to be added to the helicopter please contact our operations team for more information on ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or 0800 030 4105
Throw back to our first helicopter abseil
Helicopter rappelling has usually been left to the military and armed forces with specialist training and experience. When we were approached by producers of the “Running Wild" TV series back in 2015 to fly Bear Grylls and celebrity guest Michael B Jordan, before they abseiled out of the helicopter. We were excited to be part of the action and aimed to push operator boundaries to achieve our clients wishes.
The helicopter abseil granted by the CAA was the first permission to be given for this kind of stunt within the UK whilst operating under an AOC.
While the cold, windy weather could not have been more perfect for the series producers. The weather added to the tasks already stringently laid down performance requirements. Having proven the ability to hover on just one functioning engine in the event of a failure of either engine, the CAA granted approval.
The abseil could not have gone any smoother. We were delighted to be a part of the chaos as both Bear and Michael rappelled down the wire. As they both dropped into the murky sea they were greeted with roaring waves crashing over them. The pair started their 24 hour adventure in style; Running Wild with Bear Grylls Season 2, Episode 7.
Since then, we are proud to have completed an array of helicopter stunts and aerial filming sequences across the TV sector. This has included a high volume of helicopter abseils, people jumping from the helicopter and people being flown on a longline underneath the aircraft with an additional filming aircraft capturing the action. The most notable stunt was for Harry Styles debut music video “Sign of the Times” which won Brit Award “British Artist Video of the Year 2018”.
If you are thinking of performing a helicopter stunt for your latest production, contact our operations team. They will be happy to discuss your requirements and options to make dynamic aerial sequences. At GB Helicopters we always maintain the highest level of safety on task.
For more information on helicopter abseils and aerial stunt work for TV and Film or contact our operations team on ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or call 0800 030 4105.
4K Ultra Telephoto Canon 20x50 Lens
GB Helicopters now owns a 4k aerial camera system integrated with the freshly released 4k Cine Canon lens. The 20x50 ultra telephoto zoom lens offers stunning UHD performance; ideal for sporting events and wildlife applications and compliments their already superb C516 camera system from GSS.
The system fitted with a Red Epic Dragon sensor, has been bespokely calibrated to adapt to both the 30-300mm lens and now the 20x50; both by Canon and encase them within the 16” carbon-fibre gimbal structure. Having initially chosen the GSS system due to its ability to effortlessly interchange payloads. It is ideally suited to task changes whilst on location, catering for dramatic wide shots as well as long range close ups of specific subjects with only minutes of downtime to effect the change.
The two Canon lenses offer the unprecedented quality, flexibility and usability required for shoots in demanding and unpredictable environments. Combining the finest quality optics with a weather-and-shock-proof construction the 20x50 lens is perfect for aerial action shooting, its unrivalled focal length and zooming capabilities capture extremely high-resolution from a distance as well as minuscule details with immaculate definition for close-to-the-action sports work. The lens also maintains the highest quality throughout its impressive zooming range with fast, reactive positional changes. Fitted to the Red Epic Dragon this sensor-lens combination leaves endless possibility for filming requirements.
The C516 as a whole is the lightest most compact system of its type, helping to maintain aircraft operating limitations and endurance whilst maximising payload. GB Helicopters also own and operate an all-weather Air Operators Certificate, which allows the legal carriage of passengers on task; valid throughout the UK and Northern Europe this charter certificate enables a wide operating area of interest. It also allows the ability for the director to watch from the aircraft cabin to ensure that vital sequence has been captured. Simultaneously recording up to 6k R3D files to the Red Epic Dragon or alternatively offering the ability to downlink live images, ensuring any additional viewing requirement can be met on the ground with radio links to the aircraft for direction.
For stabilised footage requirements further afield, the entire system can be packed into five cases, all qualifying under excess baggage, in order to avoid lengthy delays associated with freighting equipment. The C516 can be mounted to multiple types of aircraft, vehicles and marine vessels making it a unit for all occasions.
Alternate camera sensors which we can offer within the C516 platform are the Arri Alexa Mini and the Sony P1.
For further information about the system and for bookings and availability contact the operations team at ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or call 0800 030 4105.
Delivery of the Shotover K1 with Hammerhead
We have recently taken delivery of the Shotover K1 including interchangeable frontal architecture, to allow quick changes from a single payload to the three-payload Hammerhead array; a superior level of sophistication for enhanced motion pictures.
What are Shotover systems?
Shotover is a developer of high performance aerial camera systems for the motion picture and broadcast industries. The company has produced an impeccable line of gyro-stabilised camera platforms that offer aerial creative’s an unrivalled level of stability, control and versatility.
Of which, the Shotover K1 is their highest performance camera system designed and manufactured to date. Made from intelligent carbon fibre and stabilisation mechanics. The K1 has also been constructed to house the latest variety of high performance camera payloads giving cinematographers full filming flexibility.
What is the Hammerhead Array?
The Hammerhead architectural adaptation to the K1, is design to house three top-of-the-line DSMC2 Monstro 8K VV sensors from camera giants Red. This tri-payload adaptation has been specifically developed and designed to improve Motion Pictures Visual Effects by providing the ability to synchronize the three 8K sensors in one flight. (Previously done by multiple fly overs and a vast amount of time consuming post production to try to create the same angle, lighting and other variables)
Why Red Monstro’s?
The 8K Red Monstro’s deliver stunning image quality with supersized rectangular portrait filming chips. Once stitched, this will provide extreme cinematic definition and panoramic field that surpasses all other aerial filming sequences to date.
Where can the Shotover system be used?
Initially designed to improve the aerial mount industry. The system is universal and can also be mounted on cranes and cars alongside other camera systems including the Shotover F1 and the cinematic GSS C516, providing further scope for any form of filming moving sequences.
Having already completed works that contributed towards Dunkirk, Transformers 5 and the up-coming Terminator movie. We are hoping to continue to see further growth in the aerial filming sector worldwide.
For more information on the camera system, availability and bookings click here or contact our operations team on ops@gbconcierge.co.uk or call 0800 030 4105.
Celebrating the Defender
Jaguar-Land Rover began to mark a year of celebration of The Land Rover Defender by creating an iconic 1km silhouette carved in to the sands of Red Wharf Bay, Anglesey; The beach where Land Rover's journey began back in 1947 when its inventor Maurice Wilks, sketched the car's unmistakable shape and explained the original concept for a “go anywhere, do anything vehicle.”
Six Land Rover Defenders - a Land Rover Series I, II and III, a Ninety from the Eighties, a Defender 90 Hard Top and a Defender 110 Station Wagon - each towed a 12ft agricultural harrow to create the drawing.
Time was an absolute critical, having a mere three hour window to create the 1km silhouette, a continuous 4.52km line drawing and Britain's biggest ever sand drawing on Anglesey beach; Completed just minutes before the incoming tide washed it away and simultaneously bidding farewell to the production of UK’s favourite 4x4.
We were delighted to be part of such a monumental occasion, filming the construction of the sand drawing and capturing the speed and accuracy of the defenders from the sky. As well as having photographers on board to capture show stopping scene that had been meticulously created.
The shoot was filmed using one of our AS355’s (also known as a twin-squirrel) and a cineflex camera system. The twin-squirrel has two engines and high performance capabilities, making it the perfect aircraft for filming shoots. With the ability to remain airborne for up to 3 hours, the aircraft was able to shoot various sequences and capture the creation from start to finish with limited downtime. With close working relationships with the CAA we were also able to gain low level flying permissions quickly.
If you are looking to conduct aerial filming and photography for your next production. Contact our operations team to discuss your requirements or for more information, bookings and availability.
Tel: 0800 030 4105
Email: ops@gbconcierge.co.uk
