Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has praised the vital role played by local aviation firm RVL Aviation during a visit to their East Midlands Airport base, highlighting the company’s contribution to public safety, environmental protection, and skilled jobs in the region.
RVL Aviation operates a fleet of 16 specialist aircraft from their Leicestershire base, delivering a wide range of essential services that support public protection across the UK. These include airborne dispersant spraying in response to oil spills, aerial surveillance and survey flights for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, aquatic weed control to preserve waterways, flight inspection and calibration operations to ensure aviation safety, and flexible charter services for both cargo and passengers.
Mr Matthews met with the leadership and staff at RVL to better understand how their round-the-clock operations contribute to keeping the public safe. He was given a behind-the-scenes look at the company’s aircraft, maintenance operations, and specialist capabilities, all delivered by a highly trained team based in Leicestershire.
“Keeping people safe isn’t just about boots on the ground—it’s also about recognising and supporting the behind-the-scenes work that protects our environment, our infrastructure and our communities,” said Rupert Matthews. “RVL Aviation is a fantastic example of a Leicestershire-based company whose skilled workforce plays a vital role in national resilience and public safety. It’s important we champion and support these local capabilities.”
Dave Connor, CEO of RVL Aviation, welcomed the visit and praised the Commissioner’s focus on supporting public safety and regional industries. “We were delighted to host Rupert Matthews and share how our work contributes to keeping the residents of Leicestershire and Rutland safe. It means a great deal to have our work recognised by the Police and Crime Commissioner, and to know that leaders in our region understand and support what we do.”
RVL Aviation has been operating from East Midlands Airport since 2010 and continues to provide essential services to government agencies, public sector bodies and commercial partners across the UK. They provide employment for 59 residents of the local area and offers numerous apprenticeship and graduate opportunities.