Just as I thought PPrune was being helpful Froggy comes in like a ar**hole and spoils it. I have been in helicopters, as in owning them, for 6 years now and I am well aware of how expensive they are to own, run and service. I was simply trying to find a more cost effective way of doing what I love. Perhaps Froggy you should re-read my post as
"
You are not the first one who wants to own a chopper then find out that you can't afford it 
" I do own a helicopter and I can afford it, I just want to be as cost effective as I can be. "Helicopters are expensive to operate! what a surprise" No not a surprise in owning and running them for 6 years just trying to be safe, legal and as I said cost effective. Many thanks to everyone else who has been very helpful and constructive