Dog-friendly scheduled helicopter flights have been launched here in Cornwall, described as a UK first. 

Now people travelling the 28 miles between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly can take their canine companions with them for the ride.

Penzance Helicopters’ nine-seat Sikorsky S76 helicopter service, flying direct routes from Penzance to Tresco and St Mary’s, now comes complete with a canine crate to safely accommodate one medium-sized or two small dogs per flight.

And in support of the Cornwall-based branch of The Cinnamon Trust – the national charity for the elderly, terminally ill, and their pets – Penzance Helicopters will also be donating £1 from each dog flight fare.

Simon Mitchell, managing director of Starspeed, operator of Penzance Helicopters, said: “We’re very excited to enable both Scilly residents and those visiting the Isles the opportunity to travel with their canine companions.

“Having recognised an increase in demand, this new addition offers dog owners a convenient and reliable mode of travel and furthers our commitment to delivering the best possible service for the Isles of Scilly.”

Falmouth Packet: The flight costs £35 one way for small to medium sized dogs The flight costs £35 one way for small to medium sized dogs (Image: Alexander Rodger / Penzance Helicopters)

For safety, dogs aboard the helicopter service travel in a fitted CAA-approved dog-crate from Sky Kennels, with tickets priced at £35 per crate, one way.

While there isn’t a weight limit, they are required to comfortably fit within the crate (75cm long by 50cm wide and 53cm high). Larger dog tickets can be requested at an extra cost, subject to availability.

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With some 23 million UK households (41%) having a pet, and 67% of dog owners planning holidays around their pooches, Penzance Helicopters has seen an increase in demand for such a service – which puts holidaymakers and day visitors just a 15-minute helicopter ride away from enjoying the Isles of Scilly accompanied by their dog.

Most beaches on St Mary’s and all beaches on the ‘Off Islands’, including Tresco, Bryher, St Agnes and St Martins, are dog-friendly.

Dogs must be kept on leads around the island of Tresco, but are also welcome in Tresco Abbey Garden.