The rally driver Carlos Sainz is also a helicopter pilot. He owns an EC120 Colibri that he is particularly fond of.

Since when have you been such an aviation enthusiast?
Carlos Sainz: I have been interested in aviation for many years now, but my work as a rally driver never gave me enough time to pursue my passion. It was only recently that I finally had enough time to pass the test for my private helicopter pilot license.

Why did you want to fly a helicopter instead of an airplane?
C.S.: The helicopter offers much more freedom than an airplane. There are a lot less constraints. The helicopter is a marvelous invention, and I am convinced that its use as a means of transport will only continue to increase in the years to come. Besides the greater independence it offers, it also makes it possible to quickly go to places that are inaccessible by other means, or which can only be reached by long voyages.

What is it about the EC120 Colibri that you like in particular?
C.S.: It’s the ideal helicopter for a private pilot: it offers good range and reasonable operating costs. It is also equipped with the latest generation of technology.

What are the points in common between a rally vehicle and a helicopter?
C.S.: Both require an enormous amount of concentration and complete respect for the limitations of the machine. You also have to be very methodical. There is no doubt that my experience as a rally driver helped me understand certain aspects of helicopter piloting.

You are used to taking on new challenges, as your participation in the Dakar Rally this year goes to show. What types of adventures would you like to undertake with your helicopter?
C.S.: I don’t think helicopters should be used to perform daring feats. It’s a fantastic means of transportation, and I hope that its use in Spain and throughout the world will only continue to grow. The most important challenge with a helicopter is not to exceed the limits, to be careful and rigorous, and to comply with instructions in order to avoid dangerous situations.

What are your thoughts on the current infrastructure in Spain for heliports?
C.S.: I wish they were a bit more flexible. It would be great if there were more heliports, and if the regulations on night flying were less restrictive. Helicopters could then fly more often, and would be easier to refuel.