Back in Post 22 it was reported that the Spanish coastguard had issued some sort of complaint because Almeria ATC (LEAM) had alerted them via the basic 911/999-type landline emergency telephone call, rather than by other means.
Cannot comment on the truth of that, but as a regular helicopter flyer in these parts I thought it worth stating for the record I, and others I know, have never found LEAM anything other than professional and helpful. I might also add that this rather small and, geographically speaking, quiet airport's controllers have rather better English language skills than many other parts of Spain I could mention. Indeed, on my last passage through their zone the man on duty went out of his way to be helpful.
Don't get me wrong. Spanish ATC ranges from some very professional IFR coverage to the joke of Europe where VFR, low-level , ie: rotary-wing, cover is concerned. Yet one must speak as one finds.
For what it's worth...
Still can't believe Sam...the co-pilot...is gone
Dan