".at the same dry price as the fuel cost on my old heli"
Maybe you have answered your own question then about why they are so popular. How often was your guzzling machine carrying more than 4 people?
I wouldn't have ever got my licence without Frank's inventions. Sorry if mere PPL's with Robinson tickets are ruining your "turbine-only" skies. I realise it is dreadfully crowded up there, but of course we wouldn't be brave enough to go about 1000' in case the machine falls apart mid flight, so 1001' and above can be all yours. Actually, preferably higher so we don't have to listen to the whining.....
Rattle