The Queen is to lease a US-built and privately-run Sikorsky helicopter to replace the two RAF Wessex helicopters of the Royal Flight at an annual saving of at least �1.8m.

But Buckingham Palace insisted that replacing the Wessex with the executive aircraft was done purely on grounds of cost and is not a snub to the RAF.

The Sikorsky S-76 will be faster and more reliable than the ageing Wessex HCC4 craft operated by 32 (The Royal) Squadron from RAF Northolt, which have been in continuous service since 1969, said a spokesperson.

The award of the 10-year contract to private firm Air Hanson came after the Royal Household invited tenders and advice from the Duke of York, an experienced military helicopter pilot.

They decided that privatisation of the service would provide savings of at least �1.8m on the �4.6m annual bill for the two Wessex.

S-76 has sophisticated controls say Sikorsky

Director of royal travel, Air Commodore Tim Elworthy said: "The introduction of this new aircraft will provide a safe and reliable service which represents the best value for money to the taxpayer."

Where savings are made, the budget will be decreased accordingly in future years, passing the benefit on to the taxpayer, he said.

Air Commodore Elworthy added: "The long association between royal flying and the RAF continues with the fixed-wing flying carried out by 32 (The Royal) Squadron."

For the first few months, a S-76B model will be used. But by the end of the year it will be replaced by a more modern S-76C+.

First launched in 1977, the S-76 is used by more of the top 100 US corporations than all its competitors combined.

About 500 S-76s have been sold worldwide, and it has a top speed of 178 mph over a range of more than 450 miles.

It has been adapted for use by emergency services, TV and offshore oil companies.

Interior is "business like, not opulent"

Buckingham Palace stressed that the interior of the helicopter will be "businesslike and functional, rather than opulent and luxurious".

The S-76 can carry up to 12 passengers and two crew, but the royal helicopter will have about six seats.

Experts said that there were no UK-built craft on the market of the size and specification required.
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