Fresh reports reveal that the monarchy’s new helicopter fleet has effectively flown the equivalent of two trips around the world in just nine months, triggering renewed outrage over environmental impact, cost, and royal privilege.
The controversy centers on two AgustaWestland AW139 helicopters, which entered service earlier in 2025. Since then, the aircraft have clocked approximately 58,000 miles, sparking questions about whether such heavy use aligns with sustainability promises and value for taxpayer money.
In a rare move, Buckingham Palace stepped in to defend the practice, insisting the helicopters are not a luxury — but a necessity.
A palace spokesperson explained that helicopters play a “key role” in royal travel due to their ability to reach remote parts of the UK that are difficult to access by other means. They also allow senior royals to attend multiple engagements in a single day, something officials say would be impossible otherwise.
Flight records obtained by GB News paint a striking picture of just how often the helicopters were used. Between February 25 and the end of November last year, the aircraft logged 420 hours in the air, operating on at least 142 out of 279 days. Over that nine-month period, they completed nearly 340 individual journeys, with stops lasting longer than an hour counted separately.
The helicopters replaced two Sikorsky aircraft that had been in service for 15 years, following a June 2024 announcement that the royal household planned to maximize use of its aviation assets.
Data also reveals which royals used the helicopters the most — and one name stands out.
Princess Anne emerged as the most frequent passenger, with 68 recorded landings at her Gatcombe Park home, reinforcing her long-standing reputation as the hardest-working member of the royal family.
Prince William was also a regular user, making 47 stops at Windsor and five at Forest Lodge, the home he shares with Kate Middleton and their children after moving there in October 2025. His helicopter trips ranged from attending a referee training course in Walsall to a women’s rugby match in Exeter, as well as engagements with England’s women’s football team in Staffordshire.
Despite the growing backlash, royal officials have doubled down on their defense, emphasizing both sustainability measures and operational efficiency.
According to the palace, the AW139 helicopters operate using up to a 50 percent blend of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) — the maximum currently allowed under industry standards. Officials argue this reduces dependence on more expensive fixed-wing aircraft.
The chief executive of the British Helicopter Association has also backed the royal household, claiming King Charles is “leading by example” when it comes to greener aviation. He added that the royal flight team actively seeks out airports that can supply SAF, even when it comes at a higher cost.
Royal travel is funded through the Sovereign Grant, which has risen sharply — increasing from roughly $109 million last year to about $167 million for 2025–26. According to the latest report released in June 2025, 141 helicopter journeys cost around $603,000, with only four flights exceeding $21,500.
A royal aide dismissed claims of excess, arguing the increased mileage actually reflects smarter use of resources rather than extravagance.
“If you’re going to make an investment of that magnitude,” the aide said, “then you need to sweat the asset.”
Still, with environmental concerns growing and public scrutiny intensifying, the royal family’s helicopter miles — and the palace’s firm defense — are unlikely to stop sparking debate anytime soon.
