Safety and Fleet
We Believe In A Safety First Culture
Over The Top is the only Queenstown helicopter operator to consistently receive the International Helicopter Operator Safety Award, recognising our world-class dedication to passenger safety. We have also been honoured by the New Zealand Helicopter Association (NZHA) for our outstanding long-term safety record.
Over The Top are proud recipients of the:
• International Helicopter Association (HAI) Safety Awards
• Aviation New Zealand Award - Outstanding Performance & Contribution to the growth of
the aviation industry
• New Zealand Helicopter Association Safety Awards - for Company and Individual Pilots
• CAA Director’s Commendation 2022
Our robust Safety Management System has been certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand’s State Safety Programme, which follows international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
Risks are continuously identified and reduced to the lowest practicable level. Regular internal and third-party audits ensure ongoing compliance and improvement. Our senior management team and every staff member take personal responsibility for maintaining the highest safety standards.
Official Endorsements Include:
• CAA approved operator No. 39285
• CAA Certi ed Safety Management System
• Conservation Concessionaire Holder
• Qualmark Gold Accredited
Our Fleet
Airbus H125 (Squirrel)
The Airbus Squirrel, known as the A-star in the USA is one of the world’s most popular helicopters. With a tandem seat upfront and a four-place bench seat in the rear, this aircraft can accommodate up to six passengers.
Features
PROVEN TECHNOLOGIES
Designed by Airbus (originally Aerospatiale) and powered with a Safran turbine power plant. Proven and Reliable.
CONFIGURABLE SEATING
With a tandem seat upfront and a four-place bench seat in the rear, this aircraft can accommodate up to six passengers.
LIMITATIONS
The H125 does come with a weight restriction, being the 2 front passengers combined weight must be less than 154 kg (340 lbs) or a single passenger of 120 kg.
General Specifications
Passengers: 6 with 2 in the tandem front seat & 4 across the rear bench seat.
Cruise Speed: 198 km/h (110 knots, 124 mph)
Rate of Climb: 8.5 m/s (1,670 ft/min)
Range: 662 km (357 nm, 411 mi)
Powerplant: Turbomeca Arriel 1B or 2B turboshaft
Passenger Payload (incl bags): 500 kg (1100 lbs) based on 1½ flt hr plus reserve
Airbus H130 (Eurocopter B4)
The Airbus EC130 is the quietest single engine helicopter in the skies. It offers exceptional visibility through the large windows, along with comfort and performance. Designed for passenger transportation, sightseeing and VIP corporate transfers.
Features
PROVEN TECHNOLOGIES
Ergonomically designed with the use of composite materials. This wide bodied helicopter offers a 23% larger cabin than the conventional Squirrel. The EC130 features 65 sq ft of windows for exceptional viewing.
CONFIGURABLE SEATING
This air conditioned wide body cabin boasts six (6) individual passenger leather seats, two in the front and four across the back. The back seats are risen ensuring all passengers enjoy exceptional viewing.
NOISE REDUCTION
Thanks to the unique Fenestron tail rotor design the EC130 is the quietest in its class. Passengers are always impressed with the comfort.
SAFETY
The EC130 series has enhanced Safety features. We also offer this aircraft in a two pilot configuration, Note: this reduces passengers to five (5).
General Specifications
Passengers: 6 (5 when in 2 pilot configuration)
Cruise Speed: 216 km/h (120 knots, 135 mph)
Rate of Climb: 9 m/s (1,770 ft/min)
Range: 610 km (329 nm, 378 mi)
Powerplant: Turbomeca Arriel 2B1 or 2D turboshaft
Passenger Payload (incl bags): 585 kg (1290 lbs) - based on 1½ flt hr plus reserve
Airbus H145
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Features
PROVEN TECHNOLOGIES
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CONFIGURABLE SEATING
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LIMITATIONS
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Why Choose Over The Top Helicopters?
With internationally recognised safety systems, expert maintenance, advanced technology, and award-winning pilots, Over The Top is committed to providing the safest helicopter tours in New Zealand. Your safety will always come first—without compromise.
