Helitune has been recognised at the national Golden KTP Awards for innovative helicopter rotor technology developed with the University of Bristol.
Helitune recognised with national innovation award for helicopter rotor technology
North Devon–based aviation specialist Helitune has been recognised at a national level for its pioneering work in helicopter rotor technology, following a long-standing research partnership with the University of Bristol.
At the Golden Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Awards, which celebrate 50 years of innovation-led collaboration across the UK, Helitune and the University of Bristol were named joint second runner-up for the lasting impact of their partnership on both industry and research.
A transformational collaboration
Helitune first partnered with the University of Bristol almost two decades ago to address a complex and persistent challenge in helicopter operations: how to reduce damaging rotor vibration while minimising costly test flight hours.
The collaboration led to the development of Minimum Flight Routine (MFR) technology, a breakthrough approach that halves the number of flight hours required to test rotor blade vibration. This significantly reduces operating costs while delivering more accurate and repeatable results for operators.
Today, MFR technology is embedded across Helitune’s product range and is used by civil and military operators worldwide to improve aircraft performance, reduce maintenance downtime, and enhance flight safety.
From research to real-world impact
The success of the partnership was underpinned by earlier Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)-funded research carried out at the University of Bristol under the supervision of Emeritus Professor Nick Lieven. That foundational work later evolved into a practical, market-ready solution through the KTP programme.
Professor Michele Barbour, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Enterprise & Innovation at the University of Bristol, said:
“This Knowledge Transfer Partnership has been a fantastic example of how collaboration between academics and industry can deliver real benefits to both parties. The MFR solution ultimately became a world-leading technology in helicopter rotor track and balance testing, helping helicopters fly more smoothly through real-time optical and vibration data.”
Driving growth from North Devon to the global stage
Since the introduction of MFR technology, Helitune has strengthened its position as a market leader in helicopter maintenance and optimisation, securing major international contracts and expanding its workforce beyond North Devon into France, Germany and the USA.
The partnership has also driven increased investment in research and development, supporting a long-term shift towards innovation-led growth within the business.
Peter Morrish, Technology and Customer Support Manager at Helitune, said:
“The KTP was transformational for Helitune. As an SME based in rural northern Devon, we were fortunate to recruit exceptional associates whose expertise brought new knowledge and technologies into our business. This collaboration enabled us to develop a world-leading helicopter balancing solution and our first digital twin of helicopter rotor systems.”
A lasting legacy of innovation
For the University of Bristol, the partnership delivered eight further research projects, more than £2.1 million in follow-on funding, international paper prizes, and a Royal Society publication, as well as contributing to a successful REF impact case study.
Founded in 1977, Helitune now forms part of the Condition Monitoring Technology Group (CMTG) Ltd and has more than 40 years’ experience in vibration health monitoring and rotor track and balance systems. The recognition at the Golden KTP Awards highlights not only a single innovation, but a legacy of engineering collaboration with lasting global impact.