Ships navigating through the Strait of Gibraltar will now be offered a dedicated helicopter service by Spain’s Helicopteros del Sureste.

A twin engine Bell 212, based at Isla Verde’s heliport (Aleciras Port) will offer crew replacement, cargo, mail and food transportation services along with emergency medical services. A spokesman added:

“All services will allow the ships to keep their course, maintain speed and avoid entry to harbour

(if not necessary). This will provide important savings in time and money.”

The Bell 212 is equipped for instrumental flight rules and will be fitted with a cargo hook, rescue hoist and stretcher for medical evacuations. The 24-hour, seven day a week service will operate in all weather and sea conditions, with a cargo capacity allowing for single items up to 1,200 kilograms.

The spokesman explained: “More than one million ships navigate through the Strait of Gibraltar each year. From oil tankers to bulk carriers, all will benefit from this safe and comfortable service, the one and only to be operating in Spain.”