What exactly is challenging about it??? Day, VMC flying circuits to a field............doesn't get much easier frankly.
Think of it more like ag work, except you are heavy when you return also. The spots are typically tight and require more attention than an easy day going in and out of 80 acre fields or paved runways. Is it super-challenging for a properly trained commercial pilot? No. Is it more challenging than boring holes in the sky with some old ladies in the back? Yes.
You have alluded to large pax - do you calculate your AUM and C of G for each challenging circuit, do a power check before transitioning, consult the RFM to make sure you have enough performance margin to operate safely,
Yes, yes, and yes. These are all pre-calculated. About all the pilot has to do is occasionally remind ground staff to put the heavier folks in the back or prevent a third passenger from boarding.
give the pax a comprehensive safety brief and show them how to egress the aircraft after an emergency landing?
This admittedly could be done better. Let's face it: a thorough briefing with demonstrations would take nearly as long as the flight itself.
Anyhow, I thought some people would appreciate a real-world perspective. If it's going to degenerate into the typical PPRUNE slag-fest about how only certain missions and certain helicopters are worthy of being flown then have at it. NYC's got positions for you, they think only public safety flights are worthy of leaving the ground.