NRG owns 3 dedicated Eurocopter AS350 helicopters renowned for high performance, safety and reduced operating costs. The powerful AS350 is ideal for the close terrain following required for geophysical surveys. The unique Starflex rotor system and ample power ensure that even the most stringent survey specifications maintained.

Why the use of a helicopter?
Helicopter platforms provide a number of advantages over conventional fixed-wing platforms and are ideally suited for project data and for surveys in rugged terrain:

•  A significant improvement in magnetic and radiometric data is achieved through the reduced survey height.

•  Radiometric (and magnetic) resolution is increased due to the slower survey speed (~25m sample spacing @ 2 Hz).

•  Better drape flying makes it an ideal platform for survey in rugged terrain.

•  A focussed survey area (no wasted line kms) is achieved through tighter possible line spacing and shorter minimum line lengths.

The Pilatus PC6
Rather than using traditional survey aircraft for its airborne gravity platform, NRG opted to invest in a specialised Pilatus PC6 platform which is renowned for its ability to fly slowly. As the resolution of the gravity data is directly proportional to survey speed, NRG is able to offer a significant improvement in resolution relative to competitors.

In addition to its slow cruising speed, the PC6 has an exceptional endurance with standard long-range tanks fitted and is ideally suited for the large prospect areas covered in airborne gravity surveys. Furthermore the aircraft is noted for its safety attributes and suitability for operation on short bush strips.