Ah the unique G-BYDF. I believe the only true S76 C Minus. Unique, insomuch that the 100% on the TQ Gauge was remarked at 86.66% not 80% as mentioned earlier. 1300shp/1500shp x 100% = 86.66. We bought a third TQ gauge, just in case, but as far as I know it has never been used. When we ballasted her up to 10,800lbs we pulled on the collective and hoped she would fly - she did of course and very well at the reduced figure.I cleaned and flew that machine many times and she had the cleanest wheel wells in christendom. I was very proud to put the pins in the main gear legs and not get covered in oil. The Island Manager and I used to squeeze into the A109C G-BVNH and when we got DF, the space seemed fantastic and we all know that the S76 is not huge in the flight deck area. It's all relative, I guess. She has undergone many subtle, but useful improvements since 1998, when she arrived on the "Island of Dreams". Sadly the guy alongside me at Post #83 lost his life in a very sad way in the Middle East. He was great guy, was Nigel, and his mexican fajitas were the best when we whiled away time on the "rock". Back with Bristow now after a 20 year gap and flying heavily laden desks on both sides of the Atlantic - Shy Torque was therefore right and I used to squeeze into the A109S with him. Great flying days! More to come I hope.
