THE introduction of a twin- engined helicopter to a Hampshire aviaiton firm's fleet is allowing clients to reach their destination - even in bad weather.

The five-seater Aerospatiale AS355 is better known to the aviation industry as a Twin Squirrel has been acquired by Thuroxton-based Fast Helicopters.

Chief pilot and managing director Mike Green said the 140mph aircraft had many advantages over the firm's existing fleet of 12 single engined helicopters, including the traditional charter favourite, the Bell JetRanger.

Mr Green is a former Army Air Corp captain and is one of the Civil Aviation Authority's senior helicopter examiners.

He said: "Single engine helicopters have many safety and legal restrictions with regard to the weather conditions in which they operate, or if the flight planned is over water or at night. As the Twin Squirrel can go almost anywhere, any time in instrument flying conditions similar to the airlines, we have been able to ensure our business clients have been able to beat the traffic and the hassle of domestic and short haul airline flights.''

Also piloting the chopper is Ian Shoobridge and Peter Vellacott, an experienced instructor and commercial pilot.