In response to "All Blacks" question!
"Could someone explain to me why they are using Bell 230s for offshore work when the company already has 412s. Also if it is only a ten mile trip why didnt they consider using 407s etc or something in the single engine market. Just curious."
The DOC cost of running a B-230 is only 50-60% of what the B-412 costs and if the job only requires B-222/230 size helicopter then they are just fine for the job. Although a B-222 is much more in its element on longer routes (more than 10 miles!) because of its speed.
If Gulf helicopters is operating in accordance with JAR requirements (which they do acoording to my info!) then a twin engine helicopter is required for operations to elevated landing pads such as offshore platforms. It may also be a requirement from the customer as well as the two pilot operation.