Helitrans, based in the tiny European principality of Andorra (which has the highest average life expectancy in the world) believes in planning ahead. Its desire for a long life as a leading operator is reflected in the acquisition of ten Eurocopters with the first being delivered in three years' time.

"It is a strategic acquisition with the aircraft being delivered over a five year period," says president Luis Freixa. "The five EC130 B4s and five AS350 B3s will give us the capability to expand our operations as we wish in the longer term. These plans will be refined in good time for the arrival and deployment of the new aircraft."

Tax incentives for the wealthy, sightseeing tourists and executives working in the international financial services sector, give Helitrans a strong market in its catchment area. The advantages of private aviation are fully appreciated by the residents of Andorra, a small landlocked country in the eastern Pyrenees bordered by Spain and France, who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and a life expectancy estimated at more than 83 years.

"We provide services to all kinds of individuals and companies," says Freixa. Helitrans was first set up in Austria ten years ago but was subsequently moved to Arinsal, a famous Andorran ski centre. "We have expanded the range of services we provide to fit the needs of our clients." The current fleet comprises three AS350 B3s which are popular for scenic flights and carry up to five passengers as well as the pilot. Tourism means there is work provisioning mountain refuges and cabins. But the broad variety of commissions include the transport of construction materials such as gravel, cement and concrete, machinery and equipment and the assembly of mechanical ski-lifts and equipment.

Helitrans is also in demand for photography, video and television filming.

Some of its activities reflect its focus on the environment. These include reforestation from the air, recovery and fertilisation of land, selective tree felling, fauna observation, feeding and restocking. Fire prevention and fire fighting area major focuses.

Freixa says: "We observe the strictest environmental protection legislation, avoid polluting and flying over populated areas as much as possible, and restrict unnecessary take-offs and landings to reduce noise pollution. Our fleet of helicopters undergoes strict quality control inspections by our technical team."

Each Helitrans pilot has between 2,000 and 6,000 hours of flight time.