Launching its new charter business, Blue Star Helicopters has recently purchased a Eurocopter AS350B. The six-seater helicopter has been put on the charter market in association with Premier Helicopters in Dublin.

Based in Cork, Blue Star Helicopters started out in 2003 as a pilot training facility and in the first year qualified eight students. The AS350B will be joining four Robinson R-22 Beta IIs and one R-44 Raven helicopter, which are used solely for pilot training.

The company also offers a complete in-house aircraft management and maintenance service.

Flight operations manager Donal McCarthy said that the Squirrel, which started operating early this year, was chosen for the number of seats it offers, its speed and the size of its cabin. According to the company, the five-passenger aircraft is suitable for flexible business travel because Blue Star Helicopters offers a point-to-point charter service and can also organise chauffeur driven transport at the destination.

Realising its customers needs, the company offers the large open cabin as an ideal solution for four golfers plus clubs wishing to fly to different courses. Due to the unobtrusive panoramic views, the aircraft can be used for geophysical surveys, sightseeing tours, pleasure trips and aerial photography.

“We have only just released the details on the Squirrel and made it available,” said McCarthy. “We would hope to do 250 to 300 charter hours per year. The reaction has been very positive so far; it’s a nice aircraft.”