Cheers and rejoicing erupted among Helicopter Seychelles staff tonight as the company received approval to resume full commercial passenger flights.

The Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority has awarded an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to the operator following a lengthy and complex application process.

Passenger flights will begin on Sunday.  The company will offer day and night-time tourist transfers, scenic flights and excursions, as well as medical evacuation services.

Head of Operations Captain Shaun Tinkler-Rose announced the news to jubilant employees at the company’s Providence hangar, calling it “a hard-fought battle and well-deserved victory”.

Helicopter Seychelles has undergone a year-long internal restructuring, culminating in SCAA inspections today leading to the AOC licence award.

Founded in 1992, Helicopter Seychelles is a privately-owned company employing around 20 local staff alongside ex-patriot pilots and engineers.

Pictured: Proudly holding the AOC — Capt Shaun Tinkler-Rose (centre left) with HSL Financial Director Dr Selwyn Gendron and members of the HSL team involved in the successful licence application