Ollie Wright, the owner of Wild Dog Helicopters, a South African helicopter provider specialising in helicopter support and charter operations, received an award for 6,750 flight hours in less than a year by the company’s fleet of 10 helicopters.

Ollie Wright

What do you think of Eurocopter’s products?
Ollie Wright: I am extremely satisfied with the reliability and design criteria of the Ecureuil series helicopters, which we use extensively. The company only uses AS350 series aircraft in the B1, B2 and B3 versions – we currently own nine AS350 helicopters. These are used for geological and geophysical surveys.

Why did you choose the AS350 Ecureuil?
O. W.: For a number of reasons. It is a new-generation helicopter with proven reliability, it is certified for single pilot operations, and it requires little maintenance between scheduled service intervals. Some other outstanding characteristics are its fast cruising speed, large flat cabin surface and ease of access. Besides, the aircraft is suited to missions in remote areas. It also has more than enough power for our operations.

Are you satisfied with Eurocopter’s support?
O. W.: Yes. I expect a steady and timely supply of parts, technical assistance, updates on new products and services, and customised assistance with training and technical updates.

Keith Piggott of Heliquip Operations (1) was rewarded for clocking up 8,460 helicopter flight hours, over 6,000 of which took place in the AS350 Ecureuil.

Keith Piggott

“I am very familiar with the light single-engine Eurocopter aircraft, which have shown themselves to be fantastic for Africa. With its speed and endurance, the AS350 in all its versions is perfect for this continent. Even though it is equipped with sophisticated technology, it nonetheless remains a simple and safe helicopter, and is easy to operate and maintain in the most isolated regions.
The support provided by Eurocopter South Africa has evolved exponentially over the past few years. Operating helicopters in Africa has always been a tremendous challenge. But when you think how many Eurocopter helicopters (over 230) are in operation in this area today, it seems to me that ESAL could boost its stock of spare parts and lay on more technical staff.”