A leading expert in aerial photography has chosen the EC120 helicopter for his business.

Yann Arthus-Bertrand took delivery of the new machine during May and now plans a photographic tour of Europe.

Arthus-Bertrand said he chose the EC 120 because it integrates most of the technological advances in dynamic components, powerplants, airframes and avionics.\r

A spokesman for Eurocopter said: “It is the most versatile in its category, and its endurance, hover flight performance and payload-to-range ratio leave the competition far behind.”

He added that the helicopter’s low noise levels were well suited to anyone involved in a similar business to Arthus-Bertrand. He said: “Not only is the EC 120 very environ-mentally friendly, but it is also the quietest in its category - a key factor in aerial and animal photography.”

Arthus-Bertrand will shortly be setting out on his European tour. He is the author of publications which include the “Earth from above”.