Thanks for that Jim. It would be rather concerning if non-UK operators can continue to fill up their helicopters on flights out out the UK while the rest of us are limited by up to 50%. Hardly a level playingh field - is this another one for Mr Farage?
I am surprised how little discussion this issue has triggered here. I am sure management (helicos and oilcos) are getting a bit sweaty over this!
As far as risk goes, I guess it makes no difference to a particular passenger (who won't be doing any more flying than he does now, but those of us upfront will be doing even more than we do now. This doesn't seem to be considered in the pages and pages of CAP1145.