Safari bush lodge with the Bell 505


MCC Aviation provides a lot of support in the hospitality industry, taking people to game lodges mostly with fixed-wing aircraft since it is more expensive to fly a helicopter so far, Barnes says.


One of MCC’s private charters included a helicopter transfer to the safari lodge in Pilanesberg National Park using a Bell 505. Goodwin says Bells combine a luxury VIP experience with the convenience of flying directly from the airport to the bush lodge. The Bell 505’s large windows and glass cockpit allow guests to fully bask in the spectacular views.


Barnes explains why he decided to add the Bell 505 to his fleet. “Being in the charter business now, I thought to myself, ‘We are missing out on the five-seater market,’ and so it was a natural progression to take in the 505. Having flown for as long as I have, it is also such a pleasure being able to bring a helicopter and land it home. It is amazing to be able to fly a turbine helicopter to your home.”


Barnes is impressed with the power of the 505. “We have been spoiled by turbine-power helicopters, and being above 5,000 feet here in Johannesburg, which itself is a challenge on power limitations, turbine power takes care of that problem straight away and one definitely respects the power of the helicopter a lot more.”


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Sept/Oct 2021


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