Over The Top welcomes new environmentally friendly helicopter to fleet

Image caption:  Louisa Patterson proudly stands in front of Over The Top’s new Airbus H130 T2


Pioneering helicopter company Over The Top has a new state-of-the-art environmentally friendly helicopter.

The Queenstown-based operator has welcomed a new Airbus H130 T2 helicopter into its fleet, part of the world-renowned Eurocopter brand.

The aircraft is fitted with a Turbomeca Arriel 2D engine which offers 10 percent more power than previous EC130s.

A trademark feature of the Airbus H130 T2 is the Fenestron, an enclosed tail rotor. The design enhances safety whilst minimising noise – and has been labelled the quietest helicopter in the world.

Over The Top owner and chief pilot Louisa Patterson said she was “hugely proud” with the the arrival of the helicopter after pioneering the use of the Eurocopter as a premium aircraft for many years.

“We first bought a Eurocopter in 2007, with the distinct Fenestron tail rotor system, as we saw it as a perfect opportunity to minimise our effect on the environment and provide our clients with the latest technology,” she said.

“The quietness of the helicopter is of great importance to us as we fly over some of the most pristine and environmentally sensitive areas in New Zealand.

“We’re delighted to say we’re still quietly leading the way.”

The Airbus H130 T2 is the sixth Eurocopter with Fenestron Over The Top has added to their fleet over the years. The new aircraft stands proud as it’s coated in the same iconic and sophisticated Over The Top black-charcoal livery.



Airbus H130 T2 at the Over The Top Queenstown hangar