Flying the venerable Sikorsky S-61N, civil operator British International has transported its three millionth passenger between Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

British International and its predecessor companies have been flying S-61Ns between Cornwall on the UK mainland and the Isles of Scilly since May 1, 1964, and claims to have made it the world’s longest established helicopter passenger service.

A celebration was held at the conclusion of the milestone flight at the company’s heliport in Penzance, Cornwall that included representatives from British International, Sikorsky, elected local officials and invited guests.

British International presented an engraved picture of one of the S61s to Susan Leggett, the three millionth passenger. Mrs Leggett and her husband Colin, of Leicestershire, are regular visitors the cluster of islands about 20 miles off the UK’s southwest coast.

Tony Jones, British International’s operations director commented: “This unprecedented attainment was made possible by the enthusiasm and professionalism of our staff who acknowledge the impressive reliability and passenger appeal of our S-61s.

“Our long-standing association with Sikorsky is vital to the continued success of the service. The helicopter link to the islands is a lifeline which must be preserved.”

“Were honoured to take part in this celebration,” said Jack Donahue, Sikorsky’s director of commercial marketing. “Three million passengers over 37 years is remarkable achievement for a civil helicopter operator.

“British International continues the tradition of providing safe, reliable and exceptional service to the people of this region. Sikorsky is proud of the contribution that the S-61N has made to its success.”