It is with deep regret that we have to inform customers of the death of John Tickner who died on the 22nd October 2011 at his home at St Ives in Cambridgeshire.

A long time owner of his beloved and outrageously registered Rotorway 162F G-ESUS which he built he loved flying his helicopter and although he had a few mishaps, was always keen to get flying again. So pleased with his Rotorway he showed it at an Earls Court exhibition a few years ago and in the true John Tickner style he badgered the organizers until they agreed to let him exhibit for free.

He always had many tales to tell and one concerned his helicopter flight training in Florida. Unable to understand the broad American accent of the ATC tower John went to see him and in his usual forthright manner told him he was English and needed directions in English. Not sure what the controller thought but on every occasion after that the controller called “is that you English” this amused many other students at the flying school who also heard the radio call, so you can guess what they all called him.

Over the years we got to know him well and he became a really good friend. He would help anyone and often flew with his fellow Rotorway owner Alan Saul.

John was a real character and a true friend and the world is a sadder place for his passing. He will be sadly missed.

Jonathan & David
Southern Helicopters Ltd.