I would say that by civilian standards the aircraft are far from "knackered". The aircraft in question had about 9800 hours (from G-INFO). Some of the ex mil aircraft have been sold off with as little as 2500 hours a great waste of tax payers money. Compare this with the Pumas and S61 operating public transport on the north sea with over 30,000 hours on the clock.
The Gazelle is interesting in that the CAA deemed it inelligible for a C of A when previous ex military light helicopters have been accepted. Bell 47(Sioux), Hiller 12E, Allouette 2.
Amongst other things I believe the engine variant is not civil certified.
Many people believe that the aircraft were restricted to prevent them having an effect on the sales of new civil helicopters. A great shame if true as this is a fine aircraft.
Last edited by ericferret; 3rd Nov 2008 at 16:32.