Originally Posted by
BPositive
Question: How often do companies give type training for a/c they fly, when required,
Very often. However you will need (as a minimum) an EASA CPL(H)/IR. (Presuming, of course, that you will be looking to work offshore in Europe).
Originally Posted by
BPositive
and what is the best way to approach them?
Applying for an advertised position is normally the best way! The last time I looked, all 3 major UK offshore operators were advertising for pilots. And lots of the other European offshore operators are also advertising.