CMBH, launched in 1992, is based at the foot of the glacier of Argentiere in the middle of the solid mass of Mont Blanc. But Pascal Brun believes the Ecureuil can help Chamonix Mont Blanc Helicopteres overcome challenges at the highest level. "It proved up to the task of intricate work in the 'roof of Europe'," he says. "I can't praise the performance of the AS350B3 enough."

For more than 70 years a lone cabin made of Duralumin panels stood as a life saving retreat for climbers battling to survive hostile weather conditions at a height of 4,362m. But recently the cabin, which provided a direct radio link to the Chamonix mountain rescue (PGHM), needed restoration.

Brun observes: "Even with the best aerial work helicopters and the most experienced pilots, work at an altitude of 4,362m is not for the faint-hearted. Such a project involves constantly battling the weather, with aerology and terrain that means the most minor setback can quickly snowball into an insurmountable obstacle."

The old cabin had been solidly anchored on a windswept headland rock and it was a race against time to replace it. "Exposure to the full force of the elements had to be minimised," says Brun. Each panel that was removed had to be replaced within hours. "Since nothing could be stored on site, the team had to work fast over a dizzying succession of round trips." The work was completed in under five months.

The renovation team comprised two metalworking specialists and two St Gervais mountain guides. The AS350B3 made over 40 round trips and carried some seven metric tons of material up to the summit. The another 10 tons needed to be transported down into the valley. "Loads of 480kg were transported in flights no longer than nine minutes,"

Brun recalls,"with massive drops of almost 3,000m. One exceptional flight managed to hoist a 720kg load up to 4,362m in a single piece." Brun logged 8,000 flying hours on a Lama before reluctantly changing and chalking up 4,000 hours on the AS350B3. "I had certain reservations," he admitted, "but I am very happy with the AS350B3. The VEMD and FLI help equip the pilot to work within strict limits. The rotor heads and blades operate well. And the pilot comfort is excellent."

For leisure charter the cabins can be configured for up to six passengers. "The great flexibility of use that the helicopter provides enables us to offer bespoke connections and transfers to destinations including ski resorts and airports." Brun says the magic of the helicopter enables clients to discover the world from another perspective.

Born in Chamonix in 1960 he learned to fly helicopters in the army between 1980 and 1984. "I have flown in the Mont Blanc range for 21 years, doing everything that a helicopter can be turned to." He flies over 1,000 hours a years and estimates that is made up of aerial works (78 per cent), scenic flights (18 per cent), rescue (two per cent) and executive charter (two per cent).