Heli-Team is looking to add a Eurocopter B3 to its fleet this year. It currently operates two B3s and one B1. Onshore operations involve construction and maintenance with about 80 per cent of the activities involving load and 20 per cent personal transport, according to md Bente Slatto Steien. Charter clients include telephone and electricity companies. It celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2008.

Steien says: "We have more work to do in season than we can manage with our current fleet so this means we need to add a fourth helicopter.

"But in winter time there is not so much work. In northern Norway we are north of the Arctic circle. And when it is 15 degrees below, working conditions are difficult, often impossible, and demand is consequently much lower than in summer."

Heli-Team's "peak season" is from mid August to late October. "This is when our fleet of three helicopters can average approximately 300 hours per month. From early May and onward the period of daylight is almost 24/7, and our hours of operation are close to the same. Our fleet of helicopters, combined with sensible scheduling of our flying staff, and their flexibility, are then available for charter operations almost around the clock."

Steien adds: "Business could expand further. We have had requests for information on helicopter support for polar surveys in the Arctic regions, but as yet no confirmation on whether it will happen or not."