Australian tech entrepreneur John-Paul Thorbjornsen (JP) has completed a 10,000-nautical mile journey across 21 countries in 41 days, aboard his newly purchased Airbus ACH130 Aston Martin Edition helicopter. Altogether, the helicopter made 39 stops en route.JP is Australia’s first owner of the bespoke aircraft, which he collected from Airbus’ Oxford, UK facility on 7 February. He made the decision to fly it home himself rather than having it shipped in the usual manner.
Unveiling the lean and agile ACH130 Aston Martin Edition for the first time in Australia, JP said that he set his sights on the seven-seater ACH130 as soon as it was introduced to him.
“I’ve always loved flying and was looking for a reliable and powerful helicopter that could safely fly my family and friends around,” said JP. “I was impressed by the performance and comfort of the ACH130. I am also convinced that this Aston Martin Edition is the most attractive private helicopter on the market, combining Airbus’ engineering excellence and Aston Martin’s craftsmanship.”
“What sets the ACH130 Aston Martin Edition apart from the rest is the intricate details and finest upholstery that created not just a well-appointed interior but an extremely smooth ride in the spacious cabin.”
JP’s journey was not without its challenges, as he navigated changing weather elements and logistical obstacles. Nevertheless, the globetrotter has no regrets about crossing the world with the ACH130.
“The ACH130 has brought me on a journey like no other. The exhilarating ride, the breathtaking aerial views, the cultural exchanges and the friendships established during this trip is worth it all,” he shared.
“It is such a delight to see how our customer has brought to life the ACH130 Aston Martin Edition through this amazing journey, which fully embraced the power of flight in style,” said Frederic Lemos, Head of Airbus Corporate Helicopters.
The ACH130 Aston Martin Edition is the product of a highly fruitful collaboration featuring a range of interior and exterior designs created by Aston Martin and applied by skilled craftspeople at Airbus Helicopters in the UK at Oxford, which has captivated the imagination of helicopter owners who appreciate the thrill of piloting and the pleasure of driving luxury sports cars.
Two years after its successful launch, ACH has sold all 15 helicopters covered by its initial production commitment, and is committed to continuing production for this exclusive edition. Orders have come from across the world including Australia, Europe, Latin America, New Zealand, North America and South East Asia.
The ACH130 Aston Martin Edition was recently refreshed with a new range of eye-catching liveries and cabin interiors, as it continues to impress customers with proven sales success globally.