Press Release

Issued by Over The Top - the Helicopter Company.

May 17, 2012

Queenstown's Over The Top helicopter company have again been awarded for their outstanding level of safety.

The New Zealand Helicopter Association (NZHA) recognizes companies, operators and pilots for their exemplary safety records with continuous service without accident to self, passengers or crew.

Last week Over The Top received six Safety Awards atoning to their outstanding safety performance within the industry.

CEO, Louisa (Choppy) Patterson, who has operated Over the Top for over 26 years without accident, was delighted to be advised of the accomplishment saying her teams commitment to safety and excellence have been top of the company's priority list ever since the company lifted off in 1986.

"Over the Top operates with the latest aircraft, finest pilots and advanced protocols. The crew are absolutely delighted to again receive this safety award honour."

This latest honour reflects Over The Top's distinctive high standards and reinforces the company's commitment to excellence and safety.

As well as the company recognition the Over The Top pilots also received individual safety accolades. Louisa (Choppy) Patterson received the Platinum Award, Steve Combe was presented with Silver and Brad Collier & Brad Comrie collecting Bronze Awards.

Irene King, Chief Executive of the Aviation Industry Association said the Over the Top awards "were achieved against a backdrop of operating in some of the most environmentally demanding conditions but stunningly beautiful scenery New Zealand has to offer".

She went on to say "Louisa and Over The Top the helicopter company exemplify the commitment to delivering excellence in everything they do"

Louisa is the first rotary pilot to be awarded the Platinum accolade, the highest level of recognition for over 25 years of continuous "accident" free flying in New Zealand.