I'm 100% with Heliport on the no flying displays point.
If manufacturers decided not to fly displays because the expense isn't justified by extra sales, that's a decision for them. But I can't believe that they all made the same decision to pull out of displays the same year - more likely show organisers decision.
If the latter, it was a stupid decision.
I heard the Blue Eagles were happy to fly but weren't allowed to.
I've always attended Helitech in a 'work' capacity, but regarded the lunchtime flying displays when the show was at Redhill as a very welcome break from the 'business' side of things. As far as I could tell, so did everyone else, if the turnout to watch them was anything to go by.
Thanks to MW Helicopters for helping the atmosphere with lots of Gazelles flying. I looked at the MW Gazelles at their stand. They do a fantastic job and produce beautiful machines. Looked as good as new - or better.