Under EASA, such operations can only be conducted on a 'Permit to Fly' basis (issued from Cologne). Logical really as any operation that takes the helicopter below its certification basis (or outside the MEL/MMEL) has associated - and somewhat unknown - risks.
Like I said Jim. I think the machete option came into play - which I'm not sure EASA or JAR any other reasonable option caters for. Johnny common sense rose to the fore...........
